Mystery Revealed!

Today's Reading: Ephesians 3:1-13

“For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles-- Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you, that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly. In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets. This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power. Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ, and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.” (NIV)
1) What on earth does Paul mean that he is a “prisoner” of Jesus Christ “for our sakes?” Remember, we are Gentiles!
2) How did Paul receive the revelation of Christ (Galatians 1:11-12)? How was this different from the other apostles?
3) Can you just imagine the frustration the prophets and those who heard them must have experienced? The prophets were given words to speak from God! On theone hand, they preached the promise of a coming Messiah, One who would sit upon David’s throne, righteously ruling Israel forever, promising Israel a lasting peace. And on the other hand, the prophets spoke of the Messiah’s suffering, death and the destruction of Israel! One prophecy a blessing, the other a curse! Do you ever feel like you are walking in similar shoes in regard to your own blessings and suffering?
4) Why did Paul address himself as “the least” of the apostles in being called to preach the gospel of Christ? Read Acts 6 and 7, especially verse 58. Also, read Acts 8:1-4 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-10.
5) The Old Testament or “old covenant” makes no mention of the church. When was the “church” first mentioned in scripture (Matthew 16:13-18)? What is the major purpose on earth (Matthew 28:18-20, Mark 16:15, Acts 1:6-9 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-21)?
6) What does Paul in Ephesians 5:25-33 liken the church to?
7) What does it mean to approach God’s throne with freedom and confidence (Hebrews 4:12-16, Hebrews 10:16-25 and Romans 8:14-17)?
8) Most of us can only focus on our own sufferings. Have you ever participated in the sufferings of others? How has this affected you and/or your walk with Christ? Were you discouraged or encouraged? Explain.
9) Why was Paul saying that his sufferings were for our glory?
10) Have you ever considered that possibly your own sufferings may be for another’s glory or benefit? Hmm!