Unveiling the Mystery of 1 Corinthians 2:7

Unveiling the Mystery of 1 Corinthians 2:7

"But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory." — 1 Corinthians 2:7

What Is the Mystery?

Biblically, a mystery is not unknowable, but previously concealed and now revealed. The wisdom Paul speaks of is God’s hidden plan of salvation, ordained before time began yet kept secret until revealed through him. Some aspects of this mystery include:

• The incarnation and resurrection of Christ (1 Timothy 3:16).
• The inclusion of Gentiles in salvation (Ephesians 3:6).
• The believer’s union with Christ (Colossians 1:26-27).
• The future glory prepared for God’s people (Romans 16:25).

Paul speaks of God’s wisdom in a mystery, a truth hidden for ages but now fully revealed through Christ and His work on the cross. This mystery is the foundation of our doctrine, a revelation that goes beyond worldly wisdom and calls believers into a deeper understanding of God’s eternal plan.

Why Was the Mystery Hidden?

God’s plan was progressively revealed, first through types and shadows in the Old Testament, then fully through Paul, who was given the revelation of the Gospel of grace. It was hidden because:

• The appointed time had not yet come—Christ had to complete His work first.
• It was hidden from worldly rulers—their pursuit of power kept them from understanding the wisdom of God.
• It was reserved for those who would receive it through faith—spiritual discernment was required.

Paul emphasizes that this mystery was not revealed in past ages but was now entrusted to him to make known to the Body of Christ. It is the basis of our doctrine, shaping how we live, believe, and understand God’s grace today.

The Mystery is Key to Our Doctrine and Calling

This revealed wisdom is not secondary knowledge—it is the very doctrine we follow under grace. We do not hold to the law-based system of Israel, but to the dispensation of God’s hidden wisdom, revealed to us through faith in Christ’s finished work.

Paul tells us that this wisdom was ordained for our glory, meaning it was always meant to bring believers into God’s presence, fully justified and eternally secure in Christ. Our calling as grace believers is to learn, understand, and follow this mystery, recognizing that it forms the foundation of our doctrine, our faith.

Taking Hold of God's Wisdom

This mystery is God’s invitation to see the depth of His grace—a grace that predates the world and secures us forever in Christ. Through this revealed truth, we walk in confidence, purpose, and eternal assurance, knowing that we are part of God’s eternal plan, designed before time, revealed in this age, and fulfilled in glory. The mystery is our doctrine, our hope, and our identity in Christ. Let’s seek it out, learn it, and allow it to shape our relationship and walk with God our Saviour.