Colossians 1:26
Verse
Context
Paul’s Suffering for the Church
25I became its servant by the commission God gave me to fully proclaim to you the word of God,26the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints.27To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The mystery which hath been hid - The mystery is this: that God had designed to grant the Gentiles the same privileges with the Jews, and make them his people who were not his people. That this is what St. Paul means by the mystery, see Eph 3:3, etc. Made manifest to his saints - It is fully known to all who have embraced the doctrine of Christ crucified; to all Christians.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the mystery--(See on Eph 1:9-10; Eph 3:5-9). The mystery, once hidden, now revealed, is redemption for the whole Gentile world, as well as for the Jews, "Christ in you (Gentiles) the hope of glory" (Col 1:27). from ages--"from," according to ALFORD, refers to time, not "hidden from": from the time of the ages; still what is meant is that the mystery was hidden from the beings living in those "ages." The "ages" are the vast successive periods marked by successive orders of beings and stages of creation. Greek, "Æons," a word used by the Gnostics for angelic beings emanating from God. The Spirit by Paul presciently, in opposition to Gnostic error already beginning (Col 2:18), teaches, that the mystery of redemption was hidden in God's purposes in Christ, alike from the angelic beings (compare Eph 3:10) of the pre-Adamic "ages," and from the subsequent human "generations." Translate as Greek, "the ages . . . the generations." made manifest to his saints--to His apostles and prophets primarily (Eph 3:5), and through them to all His saints.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and generations,.... This is said, as explanative of the word of God; signifying that he did not mean the Scriptures in general, which are the word of God, and every part of them; some part of which is historical, another prophetical, another practical, and another doctrinal; nor the law, which also is the word of God, but the Gospel, called "the mystery", as it often is; because it contains things, which, though revealed, are mysteries to a natural man; and even to enlightened persons, who have the clearest view of them, the "modus" of them is not to be accounted for; such as the doctrines of the Trinity, of the union of the two natures in Christ, the incarnation of the Son of God, the union and communion of the church with Christ, the resurrection of the dead, &c. And though perhaps great and special regard may be here had to the calling of the Gentiles, which, though revealed in the prophecies of the Old Testament, was in a great measure hid in them, and not so clearly known in ages and generations past as now, yet the whole may be applied to the Gospel mystery in general; which was first hid in the heart of God, in his thoughts and purposes, in his counsel and covenant, and in his Son, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; and then in the ceremonies and shadows of the law, which but few had any insight into, and discerning of; and, during that dispensation, was wholly hid from the Gentiles; and but in part known by the Jews, and but by a few, and comparatively by them very darkly; and not so clearly by the angels themselves, who pry into these mysteries, and now, under the Gospel dispensation, learn from the church the manifold wisdom of God; and indeed it was hidden from all men, Jews and Gentiles, in a state of nature, and even from the wise and prudent of this world: but now is made manifest to his saints; now under the Gospel dispensation, since the coming of Christ; there is an external revelation of the Gospel by him, more clearly, by whom grace and truth came, called the revelation of Christ; and an internal revelation of it by his Spirit, who is the spirit of wisdom and revelation, in the knowledge of him; which is made to saints, the holy apostles and prophets, who are the saints to whom this faith, and the mystery of it, were first delivered with so much power and evidence; and to all the elect of God, whom he has separated for himself in eternal election; whom Christ has sanctified by his blood, and to whom he is made sanctification; and who are called with an holy calling, have principles of grace and holiness wrought in them by the Spirit of God, and therefore called "his" saints; these have only a spiritual discerning of the Gospel, for the natural man neither knows nor receives it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:26 The concept of a secret, hidden at one time and then revealed, is based upon Jewish apocalyptic ideas. Jewish thinkers conceived of God’s entire plan as already existing in heaven, hidden until God should draw back the curtain and reveal it. The Good News, especially for the Gentiles, had been kept secret until it was revealed in Christ.
Colossians 1:26
Paul’s Suffering for the Church
25I became its servant by the commission God gave me to fully proclaim to you the word of God,26the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints.27To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Heavenly Vision) 3 - Vision and Calling
By Stephen Kaung3.5K1:06:15MAT 6:33ACT 26:19EPH 5:27COL 1:26In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of responding to the heavenly vision that God gives us. He uses the example of Abraham, who obeyed God's call to leave his idolatrous city and follow Him. The preacher also highlights that the heavenly vision transforms our lives and should be the testimony of our lives. He mentions that the heavenly vision consists of two parts: seeing the just one (Jesus) and hearing His voice. The Apostle Paul, in his declaration before King Agrippa, testifies that he was not disobedient to the heavenly vision, which completely changed his life.
The Local Church 1 - Part 2
By William MacDonald3.3K09:25JHN 3:3ACT 2:1ROM 12:51CO 12:12GAL 3:28EPH 1:22EPH 2:14COL 1:26REV 20:6This sermon delves into the distinction between Israel and the church, emphasizing that they are not a continuum but rather distinct entities in God's plan. It highlights how Israel is not a mystery and has an earthly focus, while the church is a mystery, entered by spiritual birth, and has a heavenly focus. The unity of the universal church, comprising believers from all backgrounds, is also underscored as a powerful testament to the gospel's transformative nature.
God Gives Blessing to Produce Fruit
By George Warnock2.0K1:19:59FruitfulnessEXO 33:19DEU 32:1EPH 3:8COL 1:262TI 2:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of God's work in producing spiritual fruit in the lives of believers. He compares the rain that waters plants and produces beautiful fruit to the work of God in the lives of His people. The speaker also highlights the mystery of the gospel that was revealed to Paul and emphasizes the need to make all men see and understand the true message of the gospel. He criticizes the use of dramatic performances and shows in churches to convey the gospel, emphasizing the power of the living word of God. The speaker concludes by urging believers not to let the blessings and ministry God gives them become their ultimate vision, but to remain humble and reliant on God's strength.
Christ in You, the Hope of Glory
By Richard E. Bieber1JHN 6:52JHN 14:18GAL 2:20COL 1:262TI 1:61JN 5:11Richard E. Bieber shares a powerful sermon using a story of an army facing challenges and victories to illustrate the importance of understanding the mystery of Christ dwelling within believers. The soldiers who persevered and reached the palace banquet table did so by fixing their minds on the truth that the king was with them in battle and that they would one day see him face to face. Bieber emphasizes that the mystery of Christ living in us is the hope of glory, sustaining us through trials and empowering us to live a life of mercy, forgiveness, and faithfulness.
The Era of the Hidden Secret
By T. Austin-Sparks0Hidden Secrets of GodFaith Across ErasGEN 3:15DEU 18:15MAT 13:44JHN 3:16ROM 1:17GAL 3:11EPH 3:5COL 1:26HEB 11:1JAS 2:26T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the concept of the 'hidden secret' in God's plan, contrasting it with the outward rituals and traditions of the Old Testament. He clarifies that the term 'secret' is used to denote something that was kept hidden, rather than a mystical or mysterious concept. Sparks points out that while the Old Testament contained shadows of the truth, the fullness of God's revelation through Christ has now been disclosed, shifting from an era of external observance to one of internal faith. He stresses that the fundamental principle of faith remains unchanged across both eras, highlighting that true understanding and relationship with God transcends mere ritual. The sermon ultimately calls for a deeper spiritual comprehension of God's unchanging purpose throughout history.
The Sole Pupose of Creation
By Norman Grubb0ROM 7:17ROM 8:9ROM 8:181CO 8:62CO 5:21GAL 2:20COL 1:26JAS 1:141JN 1:9Norman Grubb preaches about the revelation that God is the foundation of all truth, emphasizing that the universe and all its inhabitants are dependent forms of God. He explains that suffering and evil in the world serve a love-purpose and are necessary for us to experience the glory that follows. Grubb delves into the purpose of manifesting God's invisible self through His sons, highlighting the divine-human brotherhood and the eternal destiny of believers to reveal God's nature in His universe.
Letter 128.
By James Bourne01SA 18:14PSA 71:31CO 13:12COL 1:26COL 2:2COL 2:6James Bourne writes a heartfelt letter to Mrs. Tims, encouraging her to persevere in her faith despite challenges and doubts. He emphasizes the importance of seeking Christ's love and the mystery of being part of His kingdom. Bourne urges Mrs. Tims to hold onto wisdom and not be swayed by worldly concerns, reminding her of the treasures found in Christ. He also extends his prayers and well wishes to Mrs. H. and Mrs. G., expressing his hope for their spiritual growth and strength in the face of adversity.
Part 20: Premillennialism and the Church as a Mystery
By John F. Walvoord0EPH 3:3COL 1:26COL 2:9COL 3:4COL 3:11John F. Walvoord delves into the concept of the church as a mystery in the New Testament, emphasizing its distinct character from Old Testament saints and its revelation as a purpose of God separate from Israel. The mysteries revealed in the New Testament regarding the church, particularly the mystery of the one body in Ephesians, highlight the equality of Gentiles and Jews in the body of Christ, a truth hidden in the Old Testament but now made known. The revelation of the church as an organism in Colossians further emphasizes the indwelling of Christ in believers, contrasting the present age church with the future promises to Israel in the millennial kingdom.
Christianity Mysterious
By John Nelson Darby0Divine RevelationMystery of FaithCOL 1:261TI 3:16John Nelson Darby emphasizes the inherent mysteries of Christianity, arguing that the truths revealed in Scripture, such as the Incarnation and the dual nature of Christ, are beyond human comprehension and require divine revelation to understand. He asserts that to deny the mysterious aspects of faith is to undermine its depth and significance, as these mysteries reveal profound truths about God, sin, and redemption. Darby highlights that true understanding comes from being taught by God, and that the complexities of faith should not be simplified to fit human reasoning. He warns against a superficial interpretation of Christianity that neglects its rich, mysterious nature, which is essential for grasping the fullness of God's revelation.
The Method by Which God Makes Us Holy
By Charles William Butler01CO 2:9EPH 3:17COL 1:26COL 3:172TH 2:13Charles William Butler preaches about the method God has chosen for the accomplishment of salvation, which is through the sanctification of the Holy Spirit and belief in the truth. The work of the Holy Spirit involves destroying sin and cleansing the temple, leading to an instantaneous deliverance from all sin and revealing the deep things of God to believers. This experience includes having Christ dwell in our hearts, rooted in love, and filled with the fullness of God, preparing us for spiritual union with God and world conquest.
On Reserve in Communicating Religious Knowledge (Continued)
By J.H. Newman0PRO 25:2MAT 13:11ROM 16:251CO 2:71CO 4:11CO 13:122CO 3:6EPH 3:9COL 1:261TI 3:9The preacher, Origen, delves into the testimony of the Ancient Church, emphasizing the principle of reserve in revealing religious truths, which is not based on heathen practices but on Scripture alone. The early Church's testimony and practices align with this principle, seen in the Disciplina Arcani and the interpretation of Scripture with hidden meanings. The Ancient Church's reverence and caution in handling sacred truths are perfectly analogous to Jesus' example of revealing truths gradually. Origen and other Fathers connect this principle not only to Scripture but also to the mysteries of creation and sacraments, reflecting a great religious principle and rule of conduct.
We Will Come Unto Him, and Make Our Abode With Him
By A.B. Simpson0Abiding in JesusIndwelling of ChristCOL 1:26A.B. Simpson emphasizes the dual promises of Christ: His coming to us and His indwelling within us. He explains that the revelation of Christ in us is as significant as His incarnation, enabling us to be free from sin and embody His purity and strength. This transformation leads to a relinquishing of our own will, allowing us to declare, 'Not I, but Christ.' Simpson assures that through this relationship, we find rest and joy, as our efforts are replaced by abiding in Him, which naturally produces fruit in our lives.
"Himself"
By A.B. Simpson0Christ as the SourceLiving By FaithMAT 13:43MRK 11:22GAL 2:20COL 1:261TI 2:5A.B. Simpson emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the believer's life, asserting that it is not about the blessings or experiences we seek, but about having Christ Himself. He shares his journey of understanding that true healing, sanctification, and joy come from a personal relationship with Jesus, rather than merely seeking the gifts He offers. Simpson illustrates that Christ is the source of all we need, urging believers to rely on Him moment by moment for spiritual and physical sustenance. He encourages the congregation to shift their focus from their own faith to the faith of Christ, recognizing that it is through Him that they can find true life and strength. Ultimately, Simpson presents the profound truth that 'Christ in you' is the hope of glory, inviting all to embrace this transformative relationship.
December 22. 1678. S O L O M O N.
By Jane Lead0JOB 36:27PSA 25:14PRO 1:51CO 2:10COL 1:26Jane Lead preaches about the deep wisdom and mysteries found in the Word of Life, encouraging listeners to enter into the secret place of God's presence to receive profound revelations and understanding. She emphasizes the importance of heeding God's teachings and watching for His moving breath, which brings nourishment and fruitfulness to our lives. Through the birth of God within us, hidden truths are revealed, allowing us to grasp the profound proverbs that were previously incomprehensible. Jane Lead speaks of a time when heavenly things will no longer be hindered, and clarity will come as the clouds disperse.
Himself
By A.B. Simpson0Reliance on JesusChrist as Our SourceISA 40:31MAT 13:43MRK 11:22JHN 15:5ROM 8:322CO 12:9GAL 2:20EPH 3:20PHP 4:19COL 1:26A.B. Simpson emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in the believer's life, arguing that it is not the blessings, healing, or sanctification that we should seek, but Christ Himself. He shares his journey of understanding that true fulfillment comes from a personal relationship with Jesus, who is the source of all life and strength. Simpson illustrates that relying on Christ transforms our experiences from striving for spiritual achievements to resting in His sufficiency. He encourages believers to see Christ as the answer to every need, emphasizing that it is through Him that we find healing, wisdom, and power for living. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reliance on Christ, who is the embodiment of all that we need.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The mystery which hath been hid - The mystery is this: that God had designed to grant the Gentiles the same privileges with the Jews, and make them his people who were not his people. That this is what St. Paul means by the mystery, see Eph 3:3, etc. Made manifest to his saints - It is fully known to all who have embraced the doctrine of Christ crucified; to all Christians.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the mystery--(See on Eph 1:9-10; Eph 3:5-9). The mystery, once hidden, now revealed, is redemption for the whole Gentile world, as well as for the Jews, "Christ in you (Gentiles) the hope of glory" (Col 1:27). from ages--"from," according to ALFORD, refers to time, not "hidden from": from the time of the ages; still what is meant is that the mystery was hidden from the beings living in those "ages." The "ages" are the vast successive periods marked by successive orders of beings and stages of creation. Greek, "Æons," a word used by the Gnostics for angelic beings emanating from God. The Spirit by Paul presciently, in opposition to Gnostic error already beginning (Col 2:18), teaches, that the mystery of redemption was hidden in God's purposes in Christ, alike from the angelic beings (compare Eph 3:10) of the pre-Adamic "ages," and from the subsequent human "generations." Translate as Greek, "the ages . . . the generations." made manifest to his saints--to His apostles and prophets primarily (Eph 3:5), and through them to all His saints.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and generations,.... This is said, as explanative of the word of God; signifying that he did not mean the Scriptures in general, which are the word of God, and every part of them; some part of which is historical, another prophetical, another practical, and another doctrinal; nor the law, which also is the word of God, but the Gospel, called "the mystery", as it often is; because it contains things, which, though revealed, are mysteries to a natural man; and even to enlightened persons, who have the clearest view of them, the "modus" of them is not to be accounted for; such as the doctrines of the Trinity, of the union of the two natures in Christ, the incarnation of the Son of God, the union and communion of the church with Christ, the resurrection of the dead, &c. And though perhaps great and special regard may be here had to the calling of the Gentiles, which, though revealed in the prophecies of the Old Testament, was in a great measure hid in them, and not so clearly known in ages and generations past as now, yet the whole may be applied to the Gospel mystery in general; which was first hid in the heart of God, in his thoughts and purposes, in his counsel and covenant, and in his Son, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; and then in the ceremonies and shadows of the law, which but few had any insight into, and discerning of; and, during that dispensation, was wholly hid from the Gentiles; and but in part known by the Jews, and but by a few, and comparatively by them very darkly; and not so clearly by the angels themselves, who pry into these mysteries, and now, under the Gospel dispensation, learn from the church the manifold wisdom of God; and indeed it was hidden from all men, Jews and Gentiles, in a state of nature, and even from the wise and prudent of this world: but now is made manifest to his saints; now under the Gospel dispensation, since the coming of Christ; there is an external revelation of the Gospel by him, more clearly, by whom grace and truth came, called the revelation of Christ; and an internal revelation of it by his Spirit, who is the spirit of wisdom and revelation, in the knowledge of him; which is made to saints, the holy apostles and prophets, who are the saints to whom this faith, and the mystery of it, were first delivered with so much power and evidence; and to all the elect of God, whom he has separated for himself in eternal election; whom Christ has sanctified by his blood, and to whom he is made sanctification; and who are called with an holy calling, have principles of grace and holiness wrought in them by the Spirit of God, and therefore called "his" saints; these have only a spiritual discerning of the Gospel, for the natural man neither knows nor receives it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:26 The concept of a secret, hidden at one time and then revealed, is based upon Jewish apocalyptic ideas. Jewish thinkers conceived of God’s entire plan as already existing in heaven, hidden until God should draw back the curtain and reveal it. The Good News, especially for the Gentiles, had been kept secret until it was revealed in Christ.