Dean's Devos Part 5: Ephesians 3:1-11 – A Stewardship of Grace

by Dr. John Harvey

Let’s take a look at what Paul has to say about this mystery that is the gospel.

Verses 3-7 describe the mystery of the gospel.

Paul’s argument is a little complicated here. It’s as though he begins one idea; then, breaks off to chase another idea; then, returns to his original idea. Regardless, he makes three points about the gospel. First, it was not made known to previous generations (v.5a). Second, God’s Spirit has now revealed it to his holy apostles and prophets (v.5b). Third, it brings the Gentiles into the promise (v.6). That third point is huge and goes back to what we talked about last week—the fact that God has broken down everything that divides us, has us made into one brand new race, and has totally reversed our helpless, homeless, and hopeless condition.

Certainly, the idea was implicit in the OT.

• Abraham – “In you all the nations of the earth will be blessed.”
• Jonah – “Go to Nineveh and preach.” 
• Isaiah – “I have placed you as a light to the nations.” 
• Psalms – I will give thanks to you, Lord, among the nations.” 

But Jesus made the implicit explicit:

• Matthew 28 – “Disciple all the nations.”
• Mark 16 – “Preach the gospel to all creation.” 
• Luke 24 – “Forgiveness of sins will be preached to all the nations.” 
• Acts 1 – “You will be my witnesses to the ends of the earth.” 

The message of salvation is now a message that’s for everyone, and Jesus has entrusted it to us as a stewardship of grace.

Verses 8-12 describe the impact of the gospel.

Paul continues by explaining what the preaching of the gospel does. He highlights four results. First, it proclaims the unsearchable riches of Christ (v.8)—and we can never get to the bottom of those riches. Second, it brings to light the mystery that has been hidden in God (v.9)—but now it is revealed in Jesus. Third, it makes known God’s multi-faceted wisdom (v.10)—it’s like a sparkling diamond under a bright light. It fulfills God’s eternal purpose (v.11)—it accomplishes what God has intended since Adam and Eve sinned.

Do you know what’s amazing? What’s amazing is that Jesus entrusted this gospel to his church to make it known to all the nations. Jesus has entrusted the gospel to us as a stewardship of grace. If we don’t share it, no one will.

Verse 13 describes the cost of the gospel.

The last point Paul makes about the gospel is that it comes with a cost. When he wrote to the church in Ephesus, Paul was in prison in Rome. Why? Because of the opposition he encountered among the Jews for preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. But imprisonment wasn’t his only tribulation. Take a look at the list in 2 Corinthians 11:24-27.

What cost are you willing to pay for sharing the gospel with others? A little embarrassment? The possibility of rejection? The possibility of being considered a religious weirdo? Just remember the glory that results when someone responds in repentance and faith (“which is your glory”).

Jesus gives us a new message to share.

That message extends the good news to everyone. It has an amazing impact. it comes with a cost, but when someone responds in repentance and faith it bring glory to God. We talked earlier about the servants entrusted with the talents. They were given stewardship over their master’s money. We have been given a stewardship of grace over something far more important: the gospel.

In Matthew 24:45-46, Jesus asks this question, “Who is the faithful and sensible [steward] whom his master put in charge?” His answer is, “Blessed is that [steward] whom his master finds so doing when he comes.” In Matthew 25:23, Jesus utters the words we should all long to hear, “Well done, good and faithful [steward].” your stewardship of grace this week? Will you hear Jesus say “Well done!”