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through Christ.
c
10.
Knowledge
through the
church.
a
11.
Purpose of the ages.
b
11.
Which He made
in Christ.
c
12. Access
through
faith of Christ.
A
13.
Afflictions for you (huper humon).
We draw attention to the ending of this passage which indicates that
verses 4 -7 are a parenthesis and that verse 3 reads on to verse 8. We have
therefore the means of a clearer view of the theme before the apostle, by
leaving the parenthesis out for a time, and observing his teaching concerning
the wondrous dispensation which he had received.
The Mystery; its special Characteristics (Eph. 3)
(1) A special minister
Paul, as prisoner (1). Me (2,3,8).
(2) A special ministry
For you Gentiles (1).
To you -ward (2).
Among the Gentiles (8).
(3) A special communication
Made known by revelation (3).
(4) A special theme
Unsearchable (8). Mystery (3,9). Hid (9).
(5) A special period
The dispensation of the grace of God (2).
The dispensation of the Mystery (9). Now (10).
(6) A special witness
Unto principalities (10).
Manifold wisdom (10).
(7) A special purpose
According to the purpose of the Ages (11).
Such is the theme of verses 1-11, omitting the parenthesis. Coming to
verses 4 -7 we learn more concerning this Mystery by way of contrast. The
Mystery of verses 1 -3 and 8 -11 is contrasted with the Mystery of Christ.
Let us again seek an analysis.
(6)
The
Mystery
of
Christ*
(1)
Not exclusive to this dispensation. It was made known in other
generations (5).
(2)
Not exclusive to the apostle Paul. It was revealed unto prophets
and apostles (5).
*
See under Secrets of the Son4.
The Mystery
(1)
It was exclusive to the apostle Paul. Verses 1,2,3,8 and 9
already considered, and verse 7, `whereof I was made a minister', the
words defining the gospel intended in verse 6.
(2)
It was peculiar in its composition. It gives a threefold
equality to the Gentile believer never before known or enjoyed (6).