What does Ephesians 3:5 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 3:5 speaks of a mystery that was hidden in past ages but has been revealed in the time of the apostles and prophets through the Holy Spirit.

The "mystery" referred to in this context is often understood as God's plan to include both Jews and Gentiles (non-Jews) in one body, the Church, through the gospel of Jesus Christ.

This revelation was not fully understood or disclosed in the Old Testament but was revealed to the New Testament apostles and prophets by the Spirit.

The mystery highlights the inclusive nature of God's salvation and the unity of believers from diverse backgrounds.

Historical Context

Ephesians was written by the Apostle Paul around AD 60-62 while he was under house arrest in Rome.

This was a period when the early Christian church was expanding beyond the Jewish community and beginning to include Gentiles.

There was a cultural tension between Jewish traditions and the new faith in Christ that transcended ethnic and cultural boundaries.

Paul's mission was to preach to the Gentiles and to make clear this new revelation of God's plan for humanity’s salvation, which unified Jews and Gentiles in Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse is significant in demonstrating divine revelation through the Holy Spirit and God's progressive unveiling of His plan for humanity.

It supports the Christian doctrine of revelation, indicating a continuity and fulfillment of God's purpose through various stages of history.

Some theologians would also see here a reflection of the doctrine of the Trinity, as the Spirit reveals what is from the Father, concerning the Son.

This verse is central in Christian understanding of the mystery of the Church as the body of Christ, made up of all believers without distinction.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Ephesians 3:5 can be applied in daily life by embracing the inclusive nature of the gospel.

In practical terms, believers are encouraged to accept and love others regardless of their background, ethnicity, or previous beliefs.

It also encourages Christians to value the revelation given to the apostles and prophets, engaging with the New Testament writings as the revealed word of God and as authoritative teachings for the Church.

It promotes humility and openness to the continued work of the Holy Spirit in revealing truth.

Cross-References

• Colossians 1:26: "[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:"
• Ephesians 2:14-16: "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition [between us]; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, [even] the law of commandments [contained] in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, [so] making peace;"
• 1 Peter 1:12: "Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into."
• Romans 16:25-26: "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:"

Language Study

The Greek word for "mystery" (μυστήριον, musterion) in this verse is central to its interpretation.

In the New Testament context, "mystery" does not mean something impossible to understand but rather a truth that was previously hidden and is now revealed to those who are initiated, namely, the believers.

The phrase "not made known" (οὐ γνωρισθέντος, ou gnoristhentos) indicates that this truth was not fully disclosed before.

"Now revealed" (νῦν ἀπεκαλύφθη, nyn apekaluphthe) points to the definite act of God unveiling this truth in the present era.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient myths and religious interpretations, the concept of a mystery revealed only to a select group is not unique to Christianity.

Many mystery religions in the Greco-Roman world, such as the Eleusinian Mysteries, had secret teachings revealed only to initiates.

However, the Christian concept differs in that the mystery, once revealed, is intended for all humanity, not just a secretive group. This underscores the universal scope of the Christian message.

Scientific Perspectives

Discussion from a scientific perspective does not directly apply to this verse, as its content is theological and spiritual.

However, the process of understanding and revealing knowledge has parallels in the scientific method, where new insights build upon the foundational work of earlier scholars.

Just as Paul speaks of a revelation of spiritual knowledge, scientific advancements often involve revealing truths that were previously unknown or not fully understood.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Ephesians 3:5 typically focus on the significance of the revealed mystery being a central aspect of God's plan for the salvation of all people through Jesus Christ.

They may delve into how this mystery was partially disclosed through the Old Testament prophets but only fully understood in light of the coming of Christ and the establishment of the Church.

Many commentaries will also emphasize the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the apostles and prophets to understand and communicate this newly unveiled truth.