And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
EPHESIANS 3:9KJVWhat does Ephesians 3:9 mean?
Ephesians 3:9 describes how Paul’s mission is to help everyone understand the “fellowship of the mystery,” a truth that God kept hidden since the beginning of the world but has now revealed through Jesus Christ, who created all things. The verse emphasizes that this mystery was always part of God’s plan, but only now made clear to all people.
Paul is writing to the Christians in Ephesus, explaining his special role in revealing God’s long-hidden purpose. In the context of the letter, Paul is talking about how Jews and Gentiles are now united in Christ—a truth that was not fully known before. The verse highlights the idea that God’s plan was hidden “in God” from the start, showing both God’s wisdom and the importance of Jesus in creation and revelation.
The Greek behind Ephesians 3:9
- “Fellowship” (κοινωνία, koinōnia): This word often means sharing, partnership, or participation. Here, it points to the shared experience or unity that comes from understanding the mystery God has revealed.
- “Mystery” (μυστήριον, mystērion): In Paul’s letters, this word refers to a divine truth that was previously hidden but is now revealed. It is not a puzzle to solve, but a truth God has chosen to make known at the right time.
- “Hid” (ἀποκεκρυμμένου, apokekrymmenou): This word means something kept secret or concealed. Paul stresses that God kept this plan hidden until the time was right to reveal it through Christ.
- “Created” (κτίσαντος, ktisantos): This word means to make or create. Paul ties the revelation of the mystery to the God who created all things, emphasizing that the same God who made everything is the one revealing this truth through Jesus.
Why Ephesians 3:9 matters
- Ephesians 3:9 clarifies that the unity of all people in Christ was not a last-minute idea, but something God intended from the very beginning, even if it was not previously known.
- The verse connects the act of creation with the act of revelation, showing that the God who made everything is also the God who reveals His purposes through Jesus.
- It helps readers see that Paul’s message is not just for a select few, but for “all men”—emphasizing the universal scope of God’s plan and the inclusiveness of the gospel.