Ephesians 1:9

Letters to the Faithful - Ephesians 1:9

Berean Standard Bible

And He has made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ

King James Bible

Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:

Greek Text:

γνωρίσας ἡμῖν τὸ μυστήριον τοῦ θελήματος αὐτοῦ, κατὰ τὴν εὐδοκίαν αὐτοῦ, ἣν προέθετο ἐν αὐτῷ.

Transliteration:

gnōrisas hēmin to mystērion tou thelēmatos autou, kata tēn eudokian autou, hēn proetheto en autō.

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And He has made known to us the mystery of His will

This phrase highlights the revelation of God's divine plan, previously hidden but now disclosed to believers. The "mystery" refers to truths that were once concealed but are now revealed through Christ. In biblical context, a mystery is not something unknowable but something once hidden and now revealed by God. This aligns with Colossians 1:26-27, where Paul speaks of the mystery hidden for ages but now revealed to the saints. The mystery involves the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant, a radical shift from the Jewish-centric view of God's promises.

according to His good pleasure

This indicates that the revelation of His will is not due to human merit but is a result of God's sovereign and gracious choice. It reflects God's benevolent nature and His desire to share His plans with humanity. This aligns with Philippians 2:13, where it is stated that God works in believers to will and to act according to His good purpose. The phrase underscores the grace and kindness of God in revealing His plans to us.

which He purposed in Christ

This phrase emphasizes that God's plan is centered in Christ. The purpose of God is fulfilled and realized in Jesus, who is the focal point of God's redemptive work. This connects to Ephesians 3:11, which speaks of the eternal purpose accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. Theologically, it underscores the centrality of Christ in God's plan of salvation, highlighting that all things are brought together under Christ. This also reflects the typology of Christ as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and promises, serving as the ultimate revelation of God's will.

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Ephesians 1:9 states, "making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ." This verse, nestled within the opening chapter of Paul’s epistle to the Ephesians, forms part of a majestic doxology (Ephesians 1:3-14) that celebrates God’s redemptive plan through Christ. Its significance lies in its revelation of God’s will as a mystery now disclosed, emphasizing the centrality of Christ in God’s eternal purpose and the inclusion of believers in this divine plan. To fully unpack this verse, we must explore its context within the epistle, its linguistic and theological nuances, its connections to biblical themes, and its implications for the Ephesian church and beyond. The verse encapsulates the unveiling of God’s cosmic purpose, uniting all things in Christ and inviting believers into the knowledge of His redemptive will.

The broader context of Ephesians 1:9 is the extended doxology in Ephesians 1:3-14, a single, complex sentence in Greek that praises God for the spiritual blessings bestowed on believers in Christ. Written around AD 60-62 during Paul’s imprisonment, likely in Rome, Ephesians is addressed to the church in Ephesus (or possibly a circular letter to churches in Asia Minor), a community of Jewish and Gentile believers navigating their identity in a cosmopolitan, pagan city. In this doxology, Paul outlines God’s plan of salvation, from election before the foundation of the world (1:4) to adoption, redemption, and forgiveness (1:5-7). Verse 9 follows the mention of God’s grace lavished upon believers (1:8) and introduces the idea of the “mystery of his will,” which is further defined in verse 10 as the plan to unite all things in Christ. This verse serves as a hinge, connecting God’s gracious revelation to the cosmic scope of His purpose, setting the stage for the epistle’s themes of unity, reconciliation, and the church’s role in God’s plan.

The phrase “making known to us” (Greek: gnōrisas hēmin) highlights God’s initiative in revealing His will. The verb gnōrizō implies an active disclosure, often of something previously hidden, and underscores that this knowledge is a gift of divine grace. The pronoun “us” refers primarily to believers, both Jewish and Gentile, who have received this revelation through the gospel. This act of making known is not merely intellectual but experiential, as believers come to understand and participate in God’s redemptive plan through faith in Christ. The term “mystery” (Greek: mystērion) is central to the verse’s meaning. In Paul’s usage, mystērion does not denote something obscure or esoteric but a divine truth once hidden and now revealed through God’s action in Christ (Romans 16:25; Colossians 1:26-27). The “mystery of his will” refers to God’s eternal plan, which was concealed in ages past but is now disclosed in the gospel era, particularly through the inclusion of Gentiles in the covenant community alongside Jews (Ephesians 3:3-6).

The phrase “the mystery of his will” specifies the content of this revelation: God’s purposeful intention (thelēma), which centers on salvation through Christ. In the Old Testament, God’s will is often associated with His covenant purposes and redemptive promises (Psalm 40:8; Isaiah 46:10). Paul builds on this, presenting the mystery as the comprehensive plan to redeem and unite humanity and creation under Christ’s headship. The subsequent clause, “according to his purpose” (Greek: kata tēn eudokian autou), emphasizes that this revelation aligns with God’s sovereign pleasure and goodwill. The term eudokia conveys God’s delight in His plan, suggesting that the disclosure of the mystery is not a reluctant act but an expression of His gracious intention to bless His people. This purpose is not arbitrary but reflects God’s eternal, deliberate design, rooted in His character and love.

The final clause, “which he set forth in Christ” (Greek: hēn proethto en autō), identifies Christ as the means and locus of God’s plan. The verb proetithemi (“set forth”) implies a predetermined purpose, reinforcing the idea that God’s plan was established before creation (Ephesians 1:4). The phrase “in Christ” (en autō) is a hallmark of Ephesians, appearing repeatedly in the doxology to emphasize that all spiritual blessings—redemption, forgiveness, and now the revelation of God’s will—are mediated through Christ. He is both the agent through whom God accomplishes His purpose and the goal toward which it is directed, as verse 10 clarifies with the plan to “unite all things in him.” Christ’s role as the centerpiece of God’s will underscores His cosmic significance, not only as the Savior of individuals but as the one who reconciles heaven and earth (Colossians 1:20).

Theologically, Ephesians 1:9 illuminates several key themes. First, it highlights the gracious nature of divine revelation. The mystery of God’s will is not something humans could discover on their own; it is a gift made known through God’s initiative in Christ. This counters any notion of salvation by human wisdom, a relevant message for the Ephesian context, where pagan philosophies and mystery religions abounded. Second, the verse affirms the centrality of Christ in God’s redemptive plan. All aspects of salvation—election, redemption, and unity—find their fulfillment in Him, emphasizing His unique role as the mediator of God’s purposes. Third, it underscores the cosmic scope of God’s will. The mystery revealed is not limited to individual salvation but encompasses the reconciliation of all creation, a theme developed later in the epistle (2:14-16; 3:10). Finally, the verse reflects the eschatological dimension of God’s plan, as the mystery’s full realization awaits the “fullness of time” (1:10), pointing to the future consummation of Christ’s reign.

In the broader context of Ephesians, 1:9 serves as a theological foundation for the epistle’s emphasis on unity and the church’s role in God’s plan. The revelation of the mystery, particularly the inclusion of Gentiles (3:6), addresses the Ephesian church’s context of Jewish-Gentile tensions, calling them to live as a unified body (4:1-6). The verse also foreshadows Paul’s later discussions of the church as the means through which God’s wisdom is displayed to the cosmic powers (3:10) and the bride of Christ being prepared for glory (5:25-27). By grounding the Ephesians in the mystery of God’s will, Paul prepares them for his exhortations to live worthy of their calling (4:1), embodying the unity and holiness that reflect God’s purpose.

The verse also has pastoral implications for the Ephesian church and beyond. In a city steeped in idolatry and competing worldviews, the assurance that God has revealed His will in Christ provides a firm foundation for faith. The emphasis on God’s purpose counters the fatalism or randomness of pagan philosophies, offering believers a sense of divine direction and belonging. For the Ephesians, the revelation of the mystery invites them to embrace their identity as co-heirs with Christ, transcending ethnic and cultural divisions. For modern readers, the verse challenges believers to trust in God’s sovereign plan, even when its full outworking remains unseen, and to live in light of the unity and reconciliation accomplished in Christ.

In conclusion, Ephesians 1:9 is a profound declaration of God’s gracious revelation of His redemptive will, centered in Christ and encompassing the unity of all things. It highlights God’s initiative in making known the mystery, His delight in His purpose, and Christ’s role as the agent and goal of salvation. Theologically, it affirms the centrality of Christ, the cosmic scope of God’s plan, and the eschatological hope of its fulfillment. In the context of Ephesians, it lays the groundwork for the epistle’s call to unity and holy living, assuring believers of their place in God’s eternal purpose. For the Ephesians and believers today, Ephesians 1:9 is an invitation to marvel at the mystery revealed in Christ and to live as participants in God’s redemptive plan, united with Him and one another.

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Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,

Let us draw near in heart and mind to this glorious truth: God has made known to us the mystery of His will. Think on that for a moment. The God who spoke galaxies into being, who stretched out the heavens like a curtain, who numbers the stars and calls them each by name—this God has chosen to reveal to us His will, His purpose, His desire for the ages. Not because we demanded it. Not because we earned it. But because it pleased Him to do so, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Paul writes these words not as idle poetry, but as a shout of praise from a heart overwhelmed by grace. The mystery once hidden, the purpose once veiled, now unveiled in the Person of Jesus. God is not a distant deity who delights in secrecy. No—He is a Father who delights in revealing His heart to His children. The mystery of His will is not an abstract plan, not a cold decree—it is a living, burning purpose centered in Christ, overflowing with love.

And what is this mystery that has now been made known? It is this: that in Christ, God is reconciling all things to Himself—things in heaven and things on earth. That through the blood of His Son, peace is being made where there was division. That the walls between Jew and Gentile, between heaven and earth, between God and humanity, are being torn down. That in Jesus, a new humanity is being created, a family drawn from every tribe and tongue, a people redeemed and restored. This is not a plan devised by men; it is the eternal purpose of God, and it pleased Him to make it known.

And it pleased Him to make it known to us. Brothers and sisters, do you see the wonder of this? You who once walked in ignorance, you who were once strangers to the covenants of promise, you who were once without hope and without God in the world—now you are brought near. Now you are entrusted with the knowledge of His will. Now you are invited to participate in His great plan of redemption.

This is no small calling. This is no private treasure to hoard. To know the mystery of His will is to be drawn into His mission. If God is reconciling all things in Christ, then we are called to be agents of reconciliation. If He is making peace by the blood of the cross, then we must be peacemakers in a world of strife. If He is building a new humanity, then we must lay aside the old ways of division and hostility and walk in unity, in love, in the power of the Spirit.

But how do we live this out, practically?

First, let us live with humility. The knowledge of God’s will is not a badge of pride but a gift of grace. We did not discover it; it was revealed to us. Therefore, let us walk humbly, with hearts open to continual learning, knowing that the depths of this mystery are unfathomable and the riches of His wisdom inexhaustible.

Second, let us live with hope. The world around us is broken. We see conflict, injustice, suffering. But the mystery of His will reminds us that history is not spiraling toward chaos; it is moving toward consummation in Christ. He will unite all things in Him. This gives us strength to endure, courage to act, and joy in the midst of sorrow.

Third, let us live with purpose. You were not called into Christ simply for your own salvation, but that you might join in His redemptive work. In your family, in your workplace, in your community—be an ambassador of His reconciling love. Speak words that heal. Act in ways that restore. Build bridges where there are walls. Extend grace where there is guilt. Let your life be a living testimony to the mystery now revealed.

And finally, let us live with worship. How can we do otherwise? When we grasp even a glimpse of God’s eternal purpose, our hearts must respond in praise. The God who delighted to reveal His will delights even more to be worshiped by a people who know Him. So let us be a worshiping people—adoring Him not only with our words but with our lives, with our love, with our obedience.

Beloved, God has made known to us the mystery of His will—this is grace beyond measure. Let us then walk worthy of this calling, as children of light, as agents of reconciliation, as a people of hope and joy. And may all we do, all we are, point to Him in whom this purpose was fulfilled, Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom be glory forever and ever.

Amen.

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Almighty and gracious Father,

God of all wisdom and mercy,

we come before You with hearts humbled and lifted in awe,

for You have made known to us the mystery of Your will,

according to Your good pleasure, purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

O Lord, what a wonder that You, the eternal and holy One,

should choose to reveal to us the deep counsel of Your heart.

What a wonder that You should draw near to us who were once far off,

to open the eyes of our understanding and to call us into the knowledge of Your purposes.

You are not a God who delights in concealing truth,

but a Father who rejoices to make known Your will to Your children through the Son You love.

And so we praise You, Father of lights,

for the wisdom and grace that shine forth in Jesus Christ.

In Him we see the fullness of Your plan—

to unite all things in heaven and on earth under His lordship,

to reconcile what was broken, to restore what was lost,

to bring harmony out of chaos and peace out of enmity.

Lord, how marvelous is Your design!

How great the joy that fills our hearts to know that in Christ,

Your redemptive purpose is being fulfilled.

Though the world groans in its brokenness,

though sin has marred what You have made,

Your will is steadfast, Your purpose certain.

You are working all things according to the counsel of Your will,

and You will bring all things to their proper end in Your perfect time.

O gracious God, we confess that too often we live as though blind to this mystery.

We see only what is near, what is temporary.

We are quick to despair, slow to trust.

Forgive us, Father, for our small vision, for our anxious hearts.

Grant us, we pray, the Spirit of wisdom and revelation,

that we may know You more fully and understand the hope to which You have called us.

Help us to live in the light of Your revealed will.

Let the knowledge of Your purpose in Christ transform our thinking,

shape our desires, and direct our actions.

Teach us to walk as children of Your purpose—

with love that heals, with courage that testifies,

with humility that serves, and with joy that proclaims Your goodness.

Lord, make us a people of reconciliation,

for You are reconciling all things through the blood of the cross.

Where there is division, use us to sow peace.

Where there is hatred, let us embody love.

Where there is despair, may we speak hope.

Where there is darkness, may we shine the light of Christ.

And Father, as You have made known to us the mystery of Your will,

may we also proclaim it to others.

Let us not hide this treasure, but share it freely—

with friends, with neighbors, with nations.

Give us boldness to speak of Christ crucified and risen,

and of the coming day when all things will be made new in Him.

Strengthen Your Church, O Lord, that we may live in unity and love,

bearing witness to the great mystery of Your plan.

Keep us faithful in prayer, fervent in love, and steadfast in hope.

Guard us from discouragement when the road is hard,

and remind us daily that You who began this good work will surely bring it to completion.

And now, with grateful hearts and with longing for Your Kingdom,

we offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ,

the One in whom all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are found,

the One in whom Your good pleasure was purposed,

the One who reigns now and forever.

Amen.