THE MYSTERY OF THE GOSPEL (5)
Main Text: “Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you… Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things… which are now reported unto you… which things the angels desire to look into.” – 1 Peter 1:10–12
Saints of God, welcome to the fifth edition of our series, “The Mystery of the Gospel.” In our previous edition, we discovered that long before Christ was born, God’s plan of redemption was already unfolding through the Law, the sacrifices, the tabernacle, and the prophetic Scriptures. Though veiled in types and shadows, every part of the Old Testament pointed to Christ. In this edition, we will uncover the dimension of those who proclaimed the Gospel centuries before Christ but did not fully understand the message they carried.
To begin with, our main text tells us that the prophets “enquired and searched diligently.” Although the Spirit of Christ spoke through them, they longed to understand the full meaning of their own prophecies. They knew they were announcing God’s redemptive plan, but they could not see its complete fulfilment. So, they searched, prayed and waited. Yet the full revelation remained hidden until God’s appointed time. This tells us that revelation is a gift of God’s grace, not merely the result of human study. For example, Isaiah proclaimed the virgin birth and the suffering Servant. Micah identified Bethlehem as the Messiah’s birthplace. David described the sufferings of Christ centuries before crucifixion became a method of execution. Daniel foretold the coming of the Anointed One.
Friends, each prophet faithfully declared what God revealed, yet none possessed the complete picture. Like travellers seeing distant mountain peaks, they saw the promise without witnessing its fulfilment. Eventually, God made it known to them that their ministry was not primarily for their own generation but for those who would live to see the coming of Christ. In essence, the prophets anticipated what we now celebrate; they announced the coming Messiah; we know the risen Christ; they looked forward to the cross, we look back to the finished work of Calvary; they proclaimed promises; we live in their fulfilment. In other words, we belong to the generation that has witnessed the unveiling of God’s eternal mystery through Jesus Christ as concluded by Apostle Peter saying ”…which things the angels desire to look into.”
Child of God, permit me to tell you that the holy angels have witnessed God’s power in creation. They have stood before His throne from the beginning. Yet even they marvel at the mystery of redemption. They observe with wonder how the holy God justifies guilty sinners through the sacrifice of His Son. They rejoice when one sinner repents because they understand that the Gospel reveals a dimension of God’s wisdom and grace unlike anything else in creation. What an extraordinary privilege. Now, if angels marvel at our salvation, how much more should those who have received it treasure and proclaim it? Sadly, one of the greatest dangers facing believers is becoming familiar with the Gospel without remaining amazed by it. In fact, can I tell you that the message that transforms lives can become ordinary through neglect? As a result, it is crucial for you never to lose your wonder at the cross, cease to rejoice in the empty tomb or forget the price Christ paid for your redemption. Remember, the Gospel is not merely the entrance into the Christian life; it is the foundation upon which the entire Christian life stands.
Beloved, all things considered, I can tell you that the mystery of the Gospel reveals the wisdom of God across generations. The prophets proclaimed it; the apostles witnessed it; the Holy Spirit reveals it and the Church proclaims it. Which is, what generations longed to understand has now been entrusted to you and I. May we never treat lightly what prophets diligently sought, what angels marvel at, and what Christ purchased with His own blood.
Prayer Points
- My Father and my God, thank You for revealing the mystery of salvation through Jesus Christ.
- Give me a deeper appreciation for the finished work of the cross.
- Keep my heart from becoming familiar with the Gospel without remaining captivated by its power.
- Open my understanding to the riches of Your Word through the ministry of the Holy Spirit.
- Make me a faithful steward and bold witness of this glorious Gospel until Christ returns.
Daily Reflection
Has the Gospel become so familiar to you that you no longer marvel at God’s grace, or does the cross still fill your heart with gratitude, worship, and a passion to make Christ known?