Today's Passage - Ephesians 3:4-6

River of Life Christian Church ︳www.rolcc.net/english Ephesians 3:4-6   "In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ, which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets.  This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus."   Mystery of the gospel is that in Christ Jesus, gentiles and the chosen people of God are all heirs of God, members of one body and share the same promise.  We are all heirs because our lives are all from God, and it makes no difference if a person is Jew or gentile.  Since we are chosen by God, we all belong to God.  We are members of the same body because there's no distinction between chosen people of God; no one way judgment our authentic status as God's chosen people by the difference in opinion, look or tradition.  We receive the same promises that God has given to us in Christ, because the promises are prepared for you and me.  Promise of God is not given more to some and less to others, but rather to every chosen person that belongs to God.  As long as you belong to God, you would have the seal that shows you belong to God, and you have the right to enjoy all the promises from God.   How is this truth a mystery?  It's a mystery because it was not known to people in the Old Testament time.  In the Old Testament time, there was great distinction between gentiles and Jews.  Jews consider themselves chosen by God and they look down on the gentiles.  To the Jews, it was quite a mystery that it's God's will to have gentiles and Jews in one body and receive the same promises.  This mystery was revealed by the Holy Spirit through apostles and prophets; Paul understood this mystery, and Peter also understood this mystery after he saw the Holy Spirit working among the gentiles in the house of Cornelius.  When the early church met in Jerusalem for their first counsel, the Holy Spirit and the attendants confirmed this will of God in everyone's heart - Jews and gentiles are one in Christ.   Paul no only understood this mystery of gospel, but he also struggled for it all its life.  Many have tried to block him and enemy had disturbed him, but nothing could stop him.  He no only had a sense of mission, but he was also willing to take up this responsibility, and God used him to accomplish the work of His Kingdom.  Are you willing to take on this mission from God?  May God come and stir us up!                                                                                    Pray with Pastor Tong           Lord, I thank you because we can take part in God's promises.  Although we are not worthy, in Christ we can enjoy all kinds of privilege and blessings.  May the Lord help us to know how to hold on to your promise, and give us courage to take on the mission that you will entrust us.  No matter what kind of circumstance we face, we proclaim that we long to you and your grace and authority will be manifested through us.  I thank you and I pray in the victorious name of Jesus, amen!