23
Dec '24
The Mystery of the Incarnation
23
Dec '24
Introduction: The Word becoming flesh and being born of a virgin is a mystery. Paul writes about this mystery. In fact, he covers a lot of ground describing a host of theological truths in one verse.
Let’s read it:
(1 Tim. 3:16) – “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
1. Jesus Christ’s Incarnation! (1 Tim. 3:16) – “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh.”
The word “mystery” is μυστήριον, which means literally a mystery or a secret. It can be described as once hidden but now revealed, particularly in the Gospels.
The word “manifest” is φανερόω, which means to make manifest or to reveal. This definition explains it—to make known, or even to show openly. In other words, when Christ was born, it fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies written hundreds of years in advance.
2. Jesus Christ’s Justification! (1 Tim. 3:16) – “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles.”
Do you remember when Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River? Listen to the Word of God: (Matt. 3:16-17) – “And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Clearly, the Trinity can be seen in this passage. Jesus Christ was God! He was justified in the Spirit and was led out into the wilderness. Two questions need to be asked and answered: Are we pleasing to God the Father? Are we led by the Holy Spirit?
3. Jesus Christ’s Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension! (1 Tim. 3:16) – “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.”
Jesus Christ’s mission was to fulfill His Father’s will—by dying for our sins and being resurrected for our justification, He fulfilled His mission. Besides that, this text tells us that He ascended into heaven. Other Scriptures indicate that He sat down at the right hand of the Father. While interceding on behalf of His people, Jesus also has promised to return for His bride and then His chosen people.
Conclusion: Now this explains the mystery of the Old Testament which concealed it, while the New Testament reveals it. Have you experienced this mystery by faith in Jesus Christ? Subsequently, have you been justified by the Spirit? Are you preaching this message to others? And finally, are you waiting to be received up in glory?
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese