“When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ, 5 which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit. 6 This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.” Ephesians 3:4-6 (ESV)
For Paul, the mystery of Christ refers to the bringing together of all things in the exalted Christ. He doesn’t possess some exclusive knowledge, but this mystery has been revealed to all those apostles and prophets who have received the Holy Spirit. Paul makes clear that the incredible manifestation of God’s gracious power in the person of Jesus Christ has brought salvation to the Gentiles. As a result, Gentiles are members of the same body and partake in the promise of Christ as the people of Israel. This serves as an important reminder for us that we need to understand ourselves as interconnected members of the singular body of Christ. Paul is announcing to the Ephesians that in Christ Jesus, no one is to be considered an outsider. The reality of Paul’s words provide us with a great challenge today as we walk out into the world. We have a crucial part to play in revealing the mystery of Christ Jesus to the world, which brings about unity in God’s new creation.