When you really stop to think about why preaching Christ matters—especially from the standpoint of the revelation of the mystery—it’s not just about sharing a story or passing along some religious duty. It’s deeper, more personal, and radically transformative. What does it mean to preach Christ “according to the revelation of the mystery”? This phrase, carved out of Paul’s epistles, particularly Ephesians and Romans, carries weight that shakes the foundation of how we understand the Gospel today, especially for those of us who are grace believers who rightly divide the Word of Truth.
What Is This “Mystery” We’re Talking About?
In Paul’s day, “mystery” wasn’t something vague or unknowable. It wasn’t like a secret to be hoarded or just a riddle to puzzle over. Instead, the mystery was a truth hidden in previous ages but now brought to light—that Gentiles, yes, people outside the Jewish community, are reconciled to God through Christ by grace. The law was never the ultimate game plan. Grace was, and still is.
This revelation changes everything. It means the Messiah is preached not as a fulfillment of law or Judaism per se but as the cornerstone of a new spiritual dispensation—God’s household made up of all believers, Jew and Gentile alike. This is no small side note. It rewrites our understanding of God’s purpose and the church’s role in the world.
Why Preach Christ? Because Grace Changes the Narrative
So many struggle, even in church circles, with the idea of grace because it sounds “too easy” or like it erases responsibility. But the mystery revealed isn’t about a loophole. It’s about a new covenant where Christ’s death and resurrection are central, and our position is in Him, not in law-keeping.
Preaching Christ according to this revelation means we anchor our hope in the finished work of the cross, not our own efforts or rituals. It’s the gospel that Paul eagerly guarded, the gospel that frees us from trying to earn favor. When we preach this, we’re saying to people, “Look, God has already done the heavy lifting. Your part isn’t about struggle to meet a checklist—it’s about trusting Him who has ransomed you.”
And here’s the kicker: this kind of preaching breaks down divisions. It’s not “Jew first” or “Gentile last.” In Christ, barriers are torn down. The mystery unveiled means the church isn’t just a continuation of Israel, but something gloriously new, an entity where all are welcome, seated in heavenly places with Christ. That’s powerful. That’s hope in its rawest form.
Rightly Dividing the Word of Truth Changes the Game
We can’t ignore the thorny bits in Scripture where law and grace seem to butt heads. That’s why rightly dividing the Word of Truth is an absolute must. Paul implores Timothy to handle the word correctly, which means context is king. When you read Scripture that references Israel’s law, keep an eye out—are we in the church age, or is this a promise made to national Israel?
Misunderstanding this isn’t just academic nitpicking. It leads to confusion and sometimes division within the body of Christ. Grace believers who rightly divide see the beauty of God’s progressive revelation, how He unfolds His plan through different dispensations with Christ at the center of it all. This helps us preach Christ clearly, authentically, and effectively according to the current dispensation.
Preaching Christ: More Than Words, It’s a Lifestyle
True preaching isn’t about sounding holy on Sunday or quoting verses to win an argument. It’s about living in the reality of that mystery. How often do we let the incredible grace of God seep into every part of our lives? To preach Christ in light of His revelation is to walk in freedom and joy, not guilt or bondage.
When grace permeates our hearts, it reshapes how we treat others. We become a living testimony, not because of what we do, but because of who we are “in Christ.” The mystery revealed becomes visible in kindness, patience, and boldness to share the gospel without apology.
Does Preaching the Mystery Undermine the Old Testament or Law?
This question pops up often, and rightly so. Some feel that preaching “the mystery” pushes the law aside like last year’s news. But no, it’s not about nullifying God’s previous words or promises. The old covenant served a purpose—to reveal sin, to prepare hearts, to point to Christ. The law was our tutor to bring us to Christ (Galatians 3:24).
Preaching Christ according to the mystery is about revealing what was once concealed. It’s the unveiling of God’s grand design as it applies especially in this current era of grace. Understanding this distinction helps us avoid legalism and license alike and centers us firmly on Christ.
A Call to Proclaim the Mystery Today
If the revelation of the mystery is at the heart of why we preach Christ, then what holds us back? Fear, tradition, misunderstanding—these can all choke out authentic gospel preaching. But here’s the truth: the church needs this message desperately now, perhaps more than ever.
People are thirsty not just for answers but for freedom from guilt and shame that religion often piles on. Preaching Christ according to grace invites them into a relationship where their identity is secure—not because of what they do but because of who He is.
So, when you share the gospel, don’t water it down or get tangled in “try harder” theology. Remember the mystery revealed: Christ and Him crucified is all anyone needs. That is our message, our joy, our mission.
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The mystery isn’t just theological jargon; it’s the heartbeat of grace, the anchor of hope, and the fuel for fearless witness. Preach Christ. Preach Him according to the mystery. Trust me, it changes everything.