What does Ephesians 3:4 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 3:4 reads, "Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ." In this verse, the apostle Paul is addressing the Ephesians, indicating that by reading his words, they (and by extension we, the readers) can gain an insight into Paul's understanding of the mystery of Christ.

The phrase "mystery of Christ" refers to God's previously hidden plan for salvation which has now been revealed through Jesus Christ; it encompasses themes like the incorporation of the Gentiles into God's people and the universal scope of the gospel.

Paul is expressing the hope that his explanation will make this mystery clear to his readers.

Historical Context

Ephesians is one of the epistles in the New Testament traditionally attributed to Paul, written around AD 60-62 while Paul was imprisoned, possibly in Rome.

The letter to the Ephesians is considered a circular letter, possibly intended for several Christian communities in Asia Minor.

At the time, Christianity was spreading among both Jewish and Gentile populations, and the mystery that Paul refers to is the coming together of these two groups under the new covenant with Christ as the cornerstone.

Theological Insights

The phrase "mystery of Christ" offers a wealth of theological insight.

From a Christian viewpoint, it reveals how prophetic scriptures and the Law were fulfilled in Christ.

Theologically, this text reveals God's plan for unity in the church, the body of Christ.

For many, this highlights the universal nature of the Christian message, emphasizing that salvation is available to all people, not just a select few.

Paul's unique insight also suggests that revelation comes through the reading and interpretation of scripture.

Practical Applications

This verse can encourage believers to diligently study the Scriptures, trusting that through such engagement, deeper understanding and insight into divine matters can be attained.

It emphasizes one's personal journey in faith, suggesting that each person can apprehend the mysteries of the faith through reflection and study.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 1:9: "Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:"
• Colossians 1:26-27: "Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:"
• Romans 16:25: "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,"

Language Study

The original Greek term translated as "mystery" is "μυστήριον" (mystērion), which in the New Testament context means a divine secret that is now disclosed.

The term knowledge ("ἐπίγνωσις" epignosis) denotes a thorough, precise, or correct knowledge, suggesting that Paul's understanding of this mystery is comprehensive and not superficial.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

At the time of Paul's writings, 'mystery religions' were common in the Greco-Roman world.

These were religions where initiation rites and secret knowledge were key components.

Paul's use of the term "mystery" may resonate with this cultural understanding but it is radically redefined in the Christian context, as something that was hidden and is now being revealed to all, as opposed to being kept secret for a select few.

Scientific Perspectives

There isn't a direct correlation between Ephesians 3:4 and scientific understanding, as this verse doesn't address issues concerning the natural world or scientific phenomena. It deals with spiritual knowledge and understanding, which typically lies outside the scope of scientific inquiry.

commentaries

Various biblical commentators and scholars interpret this verse as evidence of the gradual unveiling of God's plan for humanity.

Matthew Henry's Commentary, for example, emphasizes the importance of revelation through scripture to understand divine mysteries.

John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible stresses Paul's role as an enlightened teacher whose writings facilitate our understanding of Christ's work.

Many highlight the integrative message of the verse, showing that Gentiles and Jews alike are part of God's salvation plan, as unveiled in the teachings of the apostle Paul.