Make it Clear

Scripture Reading: Colossians 4:2-4

Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison – that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

Here Paul calls the gospel “the mystery of Christ.” In the New Testament, the term “mystery” doesn’t mean something that cannot be known. It means something that can only be known as God reveals it. Man would have never come up with the gospel on his own. It is not a human invention. We know it because God has revealed it to us.

Because it is a “mystery,” the natural man can’t understand it apart from the illuminating work of the Holy Spirit. Further, there is a temptation that can trap us and hinder gospel proclamation. Our pride can tempt us to want to impress people with our human wisdom and brilliance. In doing so, we can end up mudding up the waters.

The gospel is a mystery, but it is a mystery we should speak with clarity.

Paul humbly recognized he needed the Spirit’s help in speaking clearly.

Our aim ought to be for people to be amazed by the gospel, not impressed with us. Gospel clarity is what we ought to be aiming for.

This week, pray for your pastor and ask God to help him to declare the mystery of Christ with clarity.