…to the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places,
— Ephesians 3:10

THE NEW BIBLE COMMENTARY –
pages 1022, 1023

The unsearchable riches of Christ (Eph 3:8). The gospel is not simply teaching, nor a mere indication of a way of life; it is ‘riches in incalculable measure’. The wide extent of God’s purpose was nothing less than to make all men see the truth: that is the particular truth of which the apostle had in a special manner been given the ‘stewardship’ (Eph 3:9). The newly revealed truth was not a new thought on the part of God, nor any divergence from the original plan, forced upon Him by the course of events. It was hid in God, who created all things (Eph 3:9), and therefore existed from the beginning. But God had not made it plain until now.

…the age-old mystery is the instruction of created intelligences other than man in the manifold wisdom of God (Eph 3:10). Heavenly places (Eph 3:10); see (Eph 1:3). The special instrument of instruction to these other-world beings is the church; not the individual Christian, nor the body ecclesiastic, but that unity of believers of all nations, and of all eras of which Christ is the Head. God’s eternal purpose…in Christ Jesus (Eph 3:11) had in view not men alone but ‘the whole creation’ (Rom 8:19-21)

But the more immediate and personal consequence for Christ’s work is that believers are by faith given holy confidence to draw near to God (Eph 3:12).

…A fresh reference to his imprisonment (Eph 3:13)…

Paul’s own unquenchable faith in God’s eternal purpose is seen in his exhortation that they should not be despondent because of his sufferings for them. The ultimate end, their glory, must always be kept in view.

On this day...

• Judges 8 - 2024
• Judges 7 - 2024
• He has kindled his wrath against me and counts me as his adversary - 2011
• Don't put your faith into feelings. - 2010
• PLACED IN THE LIGHT - 2009
• The Scramble for Popularity - 2009
• Colossians 2:6 - 2009
• THE QUEST FOR IMPERFECTION - 2008
• POLITICAL SKILL - 2008
• GO-TO PERFORMERS - 2008