“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 Timothy 3:16.
THE mysteries of the New Testament are sacred secrets, long unrevealed, but now made known by the Holy Spirit for the blessing and edification of the children of God. The mystery of godliness, or, as it might be rendered, the secret of piety, is Deity enshrined in Humanity in the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ. He has been manifested in flesh. This refers to His incarnation. Though He took the sinner’s place He was justified in the Spirit. His justification proved Him to be the suited One to make expiation for iniquity. Then we have His manifestation. Angels beheld their Creator clothed in the body of the Babe of Bethlehem! His proclamation to the nations in accord with the purpose of God tells of redemption accomplished. By faith He is received, believed on in the world, acceptation; and last of all we have His glorification at the Father’s right hand. He is the manifestation of the Father and the Center of all His counsels.
“Of the vast universe of bliss,
The center Thou, and Sun;
Th’ eternal theme O, praise is this,
To Heaven’s beloved One—
Worthy, O Lamb of God, art Thou
That ev’ry knee to Thee should bow.”