What is manifold wisdom? | Ephesians 3:10-13

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7 I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power. 8 Although I am less than the least of all the Lord’s people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the boundless riches of Christ, 9 and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things. 10 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, 11 according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. 12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence. 13 I ask you, therefore, not to be discouraged because of my sufferings for you, which are your glory.

What is the mystery? How does it astonish the heavenly realms? Why does it bring Paul to his knees in prayer, and why does he seek to glorify others while he is in chains?

• Heavenly beings are absolutely shocked when we come together as the church. Are you?
• Do we need fancy lights, energetic music, elaborate videos, sharp people, the latest resources, ways to meet my needs, the best friend group and the smartest teachers for me to consume,… do we need that to be in awe?
• like the 1st century church are we willing to lay down our lives to be a part of the body, a mystery that has nothing more than the pure unadulterated gospel?
• While it isn’t about you, never think of yourself as small and insignificant. You have a high standing, seated in the heavenly places, to approach God with freedom and boldness, how will you then use that standing?
• Don’t lose heart, you are part of something great and eternal.
• Paul says “my pain, your gain” and the church embraced that same attitude.
• your glory is that the wisdom of God is being made known through this family, the church.
• Jesus suffered for this. Paul suffered for this.
• So that the church could play a glorious role. So that we can be suffering people of boldness and confidence who magnify Christ.
• We can embrace this attitude. Taking up our cross to reveal his wisdom.