READ 1 Timothy 3

1 Timothy 3:16, “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”

The truth mentioned in the preceding verse quite likely is what is embellished upon here. It is the “mystery of godliness.” The word translated “mystery” in New Testament times had the sense of truth not fully understood or revealed. 

There is a great deal pertaining to godliness which we need to continually learn. Paul, in that manner, summarized the work of Christ. Part of that truth includes that “God was manifest in the flesh.” This is a direct reference to the incarnation of Jesus Christ (See John 1:14).  Without question, the Deity and incarnation of Christ are foundational truths of New Testament Christianity. 

The Apostle Paul continues by saying that Christ was “justified in the Spirit.” Christ was vindicated in his own spirit before unbelieving men, by rising from death and ascending to heaven. 

He was “seen of angels.”  The word translated as “angels” literally means “messengers.” The thought very likely may be a reference to the multitude of disciples who witnessed His resurrection and became messengers of the same to all who would hear (See 1 Cor. 15:6-8). Indeed, one of the main truths of the New Testament is the resurrection of Christ. 

He was “preached unto the Gentiles.” Without question, the gospel of Jesus Christ was preached throughout the gentile world. That is a part of the mystery, particularly to the Jewish mind. That one claiming to be the Jewish Messiah would be preached to the gentiles, the world around, was particularly a mystery to most Jews. 

Of even greater mystery to Jews is that He would be “believed on in the world.” Jews could not comprehend that the gentile world would actually believe upon the One they had rejected as their Messiah. It certainly was part of the vindication of the message of Christ. 

Finally, He was “received up into glory.” His ascension not only vindicated but also authenticated Him by God as His Son. They are the same identical words used by Luke of the ascension in Acts 1:11, 22. This verse presents a wonderful outline and summary of the work of Christ. It is what the church upholds and proclaims.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Why does Paul describe the truths listed in verse 16 as “the mystery of godliness”?

2.  Why is the incarnation a vital doctrine of New Testament Christianity?

3.  According to 1 Corinthians 15:6-8 who saw the resurrected Christ? Why is it important that the resurrection is verified?

4.  What is the primary ministry of Jesus Christ now that He has ascended into heaven? How does this impact you?