Ephesians 3:10
Verse
Context
The Mystery of the Gospel
9and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.10His purpose was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,11according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places - Who are these principalities and powers? Some think evil angels are intended, because they are thus denominated, Eph 6:12. Others think good angels are meant; for as these heavenly beings are curious to investigate the wondrous economy of the Gospel, though they are not its immediate objects, see Pe1 1:12, it is quite consistent with the goodness of God to give them that satisfaction which they require. And in this discovery of the Gospel plan of salvation, which reconciles things in heaven and things on earth - both men and angels, these pure spirits are greatly interested, and their praises to the Divine Being rendered much more abundant. Others imagine the Jewish rulers and rabbins are intended, particularly those of them who were converted to Christianity, and who had now learned from the preaching of the Gospel what, as Jews, they could never have known. I have had several opportunities of showing that this sort of phraseology is frequent among the Jews, and indeed not seldom used in the New Testament. Dr. Macknight, whose mode of arguing against this opinion is not well chosen, supposes that "the different orders of angels in heaven are intended, whose knowledge of God's dispensations must be as gradual as the dispensations themselves; consequently their knowledge of the manifold wisdom of God must have been greatly increased by the constitution of the Christian Church." Of this there can be no doubt, whether the terms in the text refer to them or not. By the Church - That is, by the Christians and by the wonderful things done in the Church; and by the apostles, who were its pastors. The manifold wisdom of God - Ἡ πολυποικιλος σοφια· That multifarious and greatly diversified wisdom of God; laying great and infinite plans, and accomplishing them by endless means, through the whole lapse of ages; making every occurrence subservient to the purposes of his infinite mercy and goodness. God's gracious design to save a lost world by Jesus Christ, could not be defeated by any cunning skill or malice of man or devils: whatever hinderances are thrown in the way, his wisdom and power can remove; and his infinite wisdom can never want ways or means to effect its gracious designs.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The design of God in giving Paul grace to proclaim to the Gentiles the mystery of salvation heretofore hidden. now--first: opposed to "hidden from the beginning of the world" (Eph 3:5). unto the principalities and--Greek adds "the" powers--unto the various orders of good angels primarily, as these dwell "in the heavenly places" in the highest sense; "known" to their adoring joy (Ti1 3:16; Pe1 1:12). Secondarily, God's wisdom in redemption is made known to evil angels, who dwell "in heavenly places" in a lower sense, namely, the air (compare Eph 2:2 with Eph 6:12); "known" to their dismay (Co1 15:24; Col 2:15). might be known--Translate, "may be known." by the church--"by means of," or "through the Church," which is the "theater" for the display of God's manifold wisdom (Luk 15:10; Co1 4:9): "a spectacle (Greek, 'theater') to angels." Hence, angels are but our "fellow servants" (Rev 19:10). manifold wisdom--though essentially one, as Christ is one, yet varying the economy in respect to places, times, and persons (Isa 55:8-9; Heb 1:1). Compare Pe1 4:10, "stewards of the manifold grace of God." Man cannot understand aright its single acts till he can survey them as a connected whole (Co1 13:12). The call of the Church is no haphazard remedy, or afterthought, but part of the eternal scheme, which, amidst manifold varieties of dispensation, is one in its end.
John Gill Bible Commentary
To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places,.... By whom are meant, not civil magistrates, much less evil angels, but the good angels, the angels in heaven; See Gill on Eph 1:21. might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God; not the perfection of wisdom, nor Jesus Christ the wisdom of God, nor the holy Scriptures; but the Gospel, which is the pure produce of the wisdom of God; which is gloriously displayed in the several doctrines of it; as in election, in choosing men in Christ for the security of their persons, in founding it not upon their works, but his own grace, for the security of his purpose, and in pitching on such persons as he has, for the magnifying of his grace: and in redemption, which is seen in the person of the Redeemer, who is both God and man; and in the manner in which it is effected, being both for the glory of God's grace and mercy, and for the honour of his justice and holiness; and wherein Satan is mortified, sin is condemned, and the sinner saved: and in justification, whereby sinful men become just with God: God is just, and yet the justifier of him that believes; the ungodly is justified, and yet not justified in his ungodliness, but from it: and in the pardon of sin, in which iniquity is forgiven, and yet vengeance is taken on men's inventions; it is an act of mercy, and yet of justice; it is by price, and yet of free grace; and the like may be observed of all other doctrines of the Gospel. And it may be called "manifold", because of its various doctrines and promises and because of the various instances of wisdom in them, and the various persons to whom it is made known, and the various times in which it is displayed: and now under the Gospel this is more clearly known, or made known to the angels by the church of God, through the ministry of the word in it, on which angels attend, being desirous to look more diligently into the mysteries of it; and by the displays of the wisdom and grace of God unto his church and people.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:10 The church is meant to showcase to the entire universe God’s wisdom in its rich variety, as expressed in his plan of redemption (see Rom 11:33-36). • the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places: See Eph 1:21 and corresponding study note.
Ephesians 3:10
The Mystery of the Gospel
9and to illuminate for everyone the stewardship of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.10His purpose was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,11according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Pdf Book) Apostolic Foundations
By Art Katz5.9K00:00EbooksApostolic FoundationsEternal PerspectiveMAT 5:11ACT 13:2ROM 10:142CO 4:16EPH 3:10COL 3:11TH 1:51TI 6:12HEB 11:1REV 20:6Art Katz emphasizes the critical importance of the term 'apostolic' in the church, arguing that its loss threatens the very foundation of faith. He calls for a restoration of apostolic principles, which are rooted in a deep understanding of God's character and purpose, and highlights the necessity of humility, suffering, and a focus on eternity in the life of believers. Katz illustrates that true apostolic living requires a radical commitment to God's glory over personal ambition, and that the church must confront the principalities and powers of darkness with a clear, powerful message of repentance and the coming judgment. Ultimately, he urges the church to embody the essence of Christ's humility and sacrifice, becoming a living testimony of God's eternal purpose.
To God Be Glory in the Church
By Art Katz3.1K1:06:24ChurchISA 28:17ISA 55:8MAT 6:33ACT 11:261CO 14:26EPH 3:10EPH 4:11In this sermon entitled "To God Be Glory In The Church," Arthur Katz emphasizes the importance of aligning ourselves with the perfect standard that comes from heaven. He encourages listeners to discard anything that does not conform to this standard. Katz also highlights the significance of prayer and fasting, sharing personal experiences of how his fellowship's prayers have protected and guided individuals in dangerous situations. He emphasizes the need for a fervent desire to see the glory of God in the earth, stating that it can only be seen through the church.
Christ - Part 3 (Compilation)
By Compilations3.0K06:38CompilationEPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the church in fulfilling God's eternal purpose. The church is not just an institution or a platform for promoting individual ministries, but it is meant to demonstrate the manifold wisdom of God to the invisible realm of principalities and powers. The speaker highlights the collision between worldly value systems and God's purpose for the church, urging believers to prioritize the eternal over the temporary. He challenges the church to not dismiss or ignore this central purpose, as it is the reason for all of creation and the reason why God created the church.
The Local Church 1 - Part 5
By William MacDonald2.9K08:38ISA 40:15MAT 16:18ACT 15:14EPH 3:10COL 1:251TI 3:1This sermon emphasizes the significance of the church as a divine institution that will endure against all odds, serving as a witness to angelic beings and forming the capstone of scriptural revelation. The church is portrayed as a place where believers are refined and unified, fulfilling God's purpose to call people to His name and propagate the faith. The importance of elders in local assemblies is highlighted, showcasing God's deep regard for the church over worldly empires.
Ger-10 the Principalities and Powers of Darkness
By Art Katz2.6K1:08:26Powers of DarknessMAT 27:40MRK 15:39EPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true wisdom exhibited by Jesus on the cross. He highlights how Jesus forgave those who were crucifying him, even though they were responsible for his death. The speaker also challenges the audience to move away from their ego-centrism and focus on God's eternal purpose for the church. He calls for a repentant acknowledgement that the church should not be driven by personal preferences, but rather by God's perspective. The sermon emphasizes the need for the church to have the determination, endurance, and fortitude to wrestle with the moral battles of life and fulfill God's purpose.
(Christian Leadership) Building the Home and the Church
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:16:59GEN 6:9GEN 12:1JOS 1:11SA 7:161SA 8:3JOB 1:1ACT 13:2EPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that having a cooperative wife is not a requirement to be a prophet of God. He warns against complaining about one's spouse and using them as an excuse for not living for God. The speaker uses the example of John Wesley's difficult marriage to illustrate his point. He also highlights the importance of balancing ministry and family, citing the example of Samuel who neglected his family due to his busy ministry. The speaker encourages believers to embrace the differences in their relationships and not try to change their spouse, as God has made them different for a reason.
Dvd 17 the Mystery of Israel and the Church
By Art Katz2.1K54:08EPH 3:10This sermon delves into the importance of the church fulfilling its apostolic and prophetic call, emphasizing the need for a deep understanding of God's wisdom and the sacrificial nature required for true discipleship. It explores the significance of Israel's restoration, the church's role in moving Israel to jealousy through self-sacrifice, and the ultimate establishment of God's theocratic kingdom on earth. The message challenges the church to move beyond sentimentality, embrace the cross, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to God's eternal purposes, especially in relation to Israel.
The Persistent Purpose of God - Part 9
By T. Austin-Sparks1.9K52:41Purpose Of GodEZK 43:4EZK 43:7MAT 6:33JHN 5:39EPH 3:8EPH 3:10COL 1:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit. They describe a house as a channel through which God's life flows, and this life is not something artificial or secondhand, but a natural outpouring. The testimony of this life is what truly matters, not just a system of doctrine or teaching. The speaker also highlights the threefold purpose of the house: as a place of God's glory, a representation of the new creation in Christ, and a vessel to fill all things. Ultimately, the sermon encourages believers to live a life filled with the Holy Spirit and to let that life be the testimony of their faith.
(Through the Bible) Ephesians 3
By Chuck Smith1.8K39:46EPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of walking closely with Jesus in communion and love. He highlights that the transition to heaven will not be a radical change, but rather a smooth and glorious experience. The speaker also discusses the dispensation of grace given to Gentiles and the mystery of God's will to gather all things in Christ. He cautions against prideful attitudes in proclaiming the gospel and mentions the disciples' expectation of an immediate restoration of the kingdom of God.
The Riches of Christ in the Wisdom and Revelation of God
By T. Austin-Sparks1.7K57:40Riches Of Christ1KI 4:291KI 5:12ROM 11:33EPH 1:17EPH 3:10COL 1:28COL 2:3In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the rapid development and advancements in the world, which are often seen as signs of human wisdom. However, the speaker argues that this wisdom is actually leading to the destruction of creation. The speaker also discusses the paradoxical nature of ministry, where times of feeling dry and limited can actually result in powerful impact, while times of abundance may go unnoticed. The sermon concludes with a reference to John Rustin's book on architecture, highlighting the importance of truth and the consequences of neglecting it.
Through the Bible - Ephesians - Part 2
By Zac Poonen1.7K55:03MAT 6:33EPH 3:10EPH 4:1EPH 4:17EPH 4:20EPH 4:23EPH 4:25EPH 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of Christians walking in a manner worthy of their calling. The first key aspect mentioned is humility, which is seen as essential for proper praise and worship. The sermon then delves into three areas of relationships: husbands and wives, children and parents, and masters and servants. The speaker highlights the need for proper behavior and treatment in these relationships, both in the home and in the workplace. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that while Jesus lived externally like others, it was his heavenly mindset that guided his behavior, and Christians are called to follow his example in their homes and in the church.
Why God Allows His Children to Suffer
By Zac Poonen1.6K58:08ROM 8:28EPH 3:10HEB 8:6HEB 11:6JAS 1:21JN 2:61JN 4:17This sermon emphasizes the difference between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant, highlighting the need for believers to understand the shift in God's ways. It challenges Christians to grasp the truth that the Old Covenant has been abolished, leading to a defeated life for many who fail to realize the freedom and power of the New Covenant. The speaker delves into examples from the Bible, showcasing the struggles and victories of Old Testament figures compared to the suffering and obedience seen in New Testament saints, ultimately calling believers to a higher standard of living like Jesus.
Pol-01 the Church & the Jew
By Art Katz1.5K51:53PolishMAT 25:31ROM 3:23EPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker begins by expressing his appreciation for the freedom to preach and the importance of the word of God. He then focuses on Matthew chapter 25, specifically the first judgment of Jesus as King. The speaker emphasizes the significance of knowing and understanding this judgment, as it will have a profound impact on everything. He also highlights the role of the Jewish people in the end times, drawing parallels between their suffering and the suffering servant described in Isaiah 53. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the need for a priestly nation to bring righteousness to the world, suggesting that the Jewish people have not yet fulfilled this calling.
Exploring True Faith (2 of 2)
By Art Katz1.5K55:52True FaithPSA 103:14MAT 11:28MAT 14:23MAT 25:21MRK 1:35EPH 3:10HEB 4:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses a confrontation between two realities: the reality of Satan, the false usurper, and the reality of God. This showdown has been ongoing since the beginning of time and will culminate in a final conflict at the end of the age. The preacher emphasizes the importance of watching and fasting, as these practices deny the desires of the flesh and align us with God's will. The sermon also highlights the need to recognize that God's reality is true and powerful, even though it may seem invisible compared to the false values and illusions of the world.
Being a Witness by Obedience
By Zac Poonen1.5K58:241SA 15:22MAT 5:14JHN 14:15ACT 1:8ROM 8:28EPH 3:101TH 5:181JN 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of being true witnesses for Christ by doing God's will in every aspect of our lives. It highlights the significance of giving thanks in all situations, obeying God's commands, and living a life that reflects Christ's character. The speaker challenges listeners to be radical disciples who prioritize obedience to God over personal desires and worldly influences.
(Atlanta 2013) 6. a Church That Manifests God's Wisdom
By Zac Poonen1.2K1:27:11JOB 1:8JER 23:30MAT 11:25EPH 1:17EPH 3:8EPH 3:10JAS 1:26This sermon emphasizes the importance of building a church that truly reflects the wisdom and glory of God, focusing on meeting with Jesus in every church gathering and maintaining a blameless conscience before God and men. It highlights the need for revelation from the Holy Spirit, humility, and a deep desire to be part of the resurrection of the righteous. The goal is to have a church where God's glory is evident and where people can truly encounter Jesus.
Doing Greater Works Than Christ
By Zac Poonen1.2K55:33JHN 14:12JHN 17:21ROM 12:41CO 12:12GAL 5:13EPH 3:10EPH 4:16PHP 2:31PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of serving in the New Covenant out of love, becoming more Christ-like, and doing the will of God. It discusses the need to listen to God, deny our own will, and work together in unity despite differences. The speaker highlights the significance of each believer fulfilling their specific ministry and the wisdom of God displayed through unity amidst diversity.
Evangelizing the Western Mindset - Part 12
By Winkie Pratney1.1K58:38PRO 1:7MAL 3:16EPH 3:10COL 3:16HEB 13:7This sermon delves into the unique characteristics of different decades, drawing parallels between historical events and the current generation. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the new consciousness and major mission fields in today's world. The sermon highlights the need for a sense of destiny, a deep reverence for God, and a connection to the rich history of the church to effectively minister to the challenges and opportunities of the 80s.
Pol-01 Kościół Iżydów (The Church & the Jew)
By Art Katz99151:42JewishMAT 25:31EPH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that we are living in the last days and approaching the end of the age. He highlights the significance of the Lord's coming, the restoration of His people, and the establishment of His kingdom. The speaker warns that even though we may claim to know the Lord, we often fail to truly understand the gravity of the times we are living in. He challenges the audience to consider their response to the least of these, referring to the Jewish people who will face persecution and rejection in the end times. The speaker emphasizes the need for true righteousness, which requires sacrifice and extends mercy even to those who may not deserve it. He urges the church to live consistently in the righteousness of God and to consider the eternal consequences of their actions. The speaker also highlights the lack of a priestly nation that can call the nations to righteousness, pointing out the decline of moral values in contemporary culture.
Church Live Re-Visited: Session Three - Part 1
By Ron Bailey80231:30ROM 1:31CO 3:31CO 4:81CO 4:171CO 6:31CO 7:171CO 11:16EPH 3:10This sermon delves into three main sections: reference points, judgment, and labor with rewards, focusing on 1 Corinthians chapters 3 and 4. It explores the different ways people live: soulish, spiritish, and fleshish, drawing parallels from Adam's naming of animals to illustrate character. The sermon emphasizes the importance of living from the spirit rather than the self, highlighting the chaos that self-centeredness can bring to the church. It also touches on the significance of perspectives, the role of angels in observing human lives, and the interdependence of churches in the body of Christ.
Discerning Between Temptation and Sin
By Zac Poonen77533:12PRO 22:6EPH 3:10EPH 4:16JAS 1:15This sermon emphasizes the distinction between temptation and sin, using the analogy of conception to explain how yielding to temptation leads to sin. It also delves into the importance of family life, obedience to parents, and building godly marriages. The focus then shifts to the significance of building a church that reflects God's wisdom through unity and love, showcasing a fellowship that transcends cultural and social barriers.
Hebron Silver Jubilee - Part 3
By Bakht Singh61557:22HebronMRK 16:15ACT 1:8ACT 2:411CO 2:5EPH 2:20EPH 3:10HEB 11:6In this sermon, the speaker shares about their experience of God's faithfulness over the past 25 years. They mention engaging double-decker buses from both sides, which seems to be a metaphor for facing challenges and obstacles. The speaker expresses gratitude for God's abundant grace and unchanging love. They emphasize the importance of worship, prayer, and thanksgiving as a way to honor and serve God.
The Church: A Three Storey Building
By Zac Poonen6011:08:50PRO 11:22PRO 22:6MAT 18:15EPH 2:14EPH 3:10EPH 4:16JAS 1:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of repeating key messages in the church, especially for new members and growing children. It encourages elders to prioritize repeating foundational truths over always seeking new teachings for personal honor. The sermon also highlights the significance of teaching children, building godly family lives, and fostering unity in the church as a reflection of God's wisdom to the spiritual realm.
Fren-17 Fondements Apostoliques - Melquisedec Sacerdotes
By Art Katz60055:33ApostolicEXO 25:20ACT 17:31EPH 3:10HEB 10:19The video is titled "Within the Veil" and explores the concept of evolving into a higher spiritual state to enter the holiest place. The speaker initially hesitates to listen to the tape due to the speaker's accent, but eventually becomes captivated by the message. The speaker discusses the importance of appreciating the blood of Jesus and its role in atonement, but also emphasizes that it has opened a new and living way for believers. The sermon concludes with a call to courage, boldness, and understanding in order to fulfill the apostolic mission of the church.
The Maximum Christian and the Way of the Cross
By Zac Poonen5631:07:41PSA 127:3MAL 1:11MAT 16:24JHN 17:10ACT 17:30EPH 3:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering fully to God, letting go of past ignorance and selfish interests, and committing to live 100% for Christ. It highlights the need to build a church that is a witness not only to people but also to the rulers and authorities in the spiritual realm. The message encourages forgiveness, training children to be spiritual warriors, and daily reading of the Bible to deepen understanding and faith.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
That now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places - Who are these principalities and powers? Some think evil angels are intended, because they are thus denominated, Eph 6:12. Others think good angels are meant; for as these heavenly beings are curious to investigate the wondrous economy of the Gospel, though they are not its immediate objects, see Pe1 1:12, it is quite consistent with the goodness of God to give them that satisfaction which they require. And in this discovery of the Gospel plan of salvation, which reconciles things in heaven and things on earth - both men and angels, these pure spirits are greatly interested, and their praises to the Divine Being rendered much more abundant. Others imagine the Jewish rulers and rabbins are intended, particularly those of them who were converted to Christianity, and who had now learned from the preaching of the Gospel what, as Jews, they could never have known. I have had several opportunities of showing that this sort of phraseology is frequent among the Jews, and indeed not seldom used in the New Testament. Dr. Macknight, whose mode of arguing against this opinion is not well chosen, supposes that "the different orders of angels in heaven are intended, whose knowledge of God's dispensations must be as gradual as the dispensations themselves; consequently their knowledge of the manifold wisdom of God must have been greatly increased by the constitution of the Christian Church." Of this there can be no doubt, whether the terms in the text refer to them or not. By the Church - That is, by the Christians and by the wonderful things done in the Church; and by the apostles, who were its pastors. The manifold wisdom of God - Ἡ πολυποικιλος σοφια· That multifarious and greatly diversified wisdom of God; laying great and infinite plans, and accomplishing them by endless means, through the whole lapse of ages; making every occurrence subservient to the purposes of his infinite mercy and goodness. God's gracious design to save a lost world by Jesus Christ, could not be defeated by any cunning skill or malice of man or devils: whatever hinderances are thrown in the way, his wisdom and power can remove; and his infinite wisdom can never want ways or means to effect its gracious designs.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The design of God in giving Paul grace to proclaim to the Gentiles the mystery of salvation heretofore hidden. now--first: opposed to "hidden from the beginning of the world" (Eph 3:5). unto the principalities and--Greek adds "the" powers--unto the various orders of good angels primarily, as these dwell "in the heavenly places" in the highest sense; "known" to their adoring joy (Ti1 3:16; Pe1 1:12). Secondarily, God's wisdom in redemption is made known to evil angels, who dwell "in heavenly places" in a lower sense, namely, the air (compare Eph 2:2 with Eph 6:12); "known" to their dismay (Co1 15:24; Col 2:15). might be known--Translate, "may be known." by the church--"by means of," or "through the Church," which is the "theater" for the display of God's manifold wisdom (Luk 15:10; Co1 4:9): "a spectacle (Greek, 'theater') to angels." Hence, angels are but our "fellow servants" (Rev 19:10). manifold wisdom--though essentially one, as Christ is one, yet varying the economy in respect to places, times, and persons (Isa 55:8-9; Heb 1:1). Compare Pe1 4:10, "stewards of the manifold grace of God." Man cannot understand aright its single acts till he can survey them as a connected whole (Co1 13:12). The call of the Church is no haphazard remedy, or afterthought, but part of the eternal scheme, which, amidst manifold varieties of dispensation, is one in its end.
John Gill Bible Commentary
To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places,.... By whom are meant, not civil magistrates, much less evil angels, but the good angels, the angels in heaven; See Gill on Eph 1:21. might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God; not the perfection of wisdom, nor Jesus Christ the wisdom of God, nor the holy Scriptures; but the Gospel, which is the pure produce of the wisdom of God; which is gloriously displayed in the several doctrines of it; as in election, in choosing men in Christ for the security of their persons, in founding it not upon their works, but his own grace, for the security of his purpose, and in pitching on such persons as he has, for the magnifying of his grace: and in redemption, which is seen in the person of the Redeemer, who is both God and man; and in the manner in which it is effected, being both for the glory of God's grace and mercy, and for the honour of his justice and holiness; and wherein Satan is mortified, sin is condemned, and the sinner saved: and in justification, whereby sinful men become just with God: God is just, and yet the justifier of him that believes; the ungodly is justified, and yet not justified in his ungodliness, but from it: and in the pardon of sin, in which iniquity is forgiven, and yet vengeance is taken on men's inventions; it is an act of mercy, and yet of justice; it is by price, and yet of free grace; and the like may be observed of all other doctrines of the Gospel. And it may be called "manifold", because of its various doctrines and promises and because of the various instances of wisdom in them, and the various persons to whom it is made known, and the various times in which it is displayed: and now under the Gospel this is more clearly known, or made known to the angels by the church of God, through the ministry of the word in it, on which angels attend, being desirous to look more diligently into the mysteries of it; and by the displays of the wisdom and grace of God unto his church and people.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:10 The church is meant to showcase to the entire universe God’s wisdom in its rich variety, as expressed in his plan of redemption (see Rom 11:33-36). • the unseen rulers and authorities in the heavenly places: See Eph 1:21 and corresponding study note.