What is the mystery of godliness?

Answer

The expression “the mystery of godliness,” as found in 1 Timothy 3:16, is a part of an introduction to an ancient hymn. In the English Standard Version, the verse is written as follows: “Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of godliness: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated by the Spirit, seen by angels, proclaimed among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.” Other translations refer to “the mystery from which true godliness springs” (NIV) and “the great mystery of our faith” (NLT). The subsequent words in 1 Timothy 3:16 elaborate on the mystery of godliness: God became flesh and dwelt among us cf: John 1:1,14.

The Greek term “musterion” (“mystery”), when used in the New Testament, pertains to the divine things that were once concealed but were later revealed through Christ and the arrival of the Holy Spirit “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”, (Acts 2:4). A mystery is something that can only be understood through God’s revelation (Romans 16:25-26;Colossians 1:26-27). It is a truth that was previously hidden but is now disclosed to God’s people. Jesus referred to “the mystery of the kingdom of God” “And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:”, (Mark 4:11, NAS) that He was then revealing to His disciples. The apostle Paul used the term mystery 21 times in his letters: the mystery of God “that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to theAcknowledgment of the mystery of God, the Father, and Christ; (Colossians 2:2), the mystery of faith holding the faith’s mystery in a pure conscience; (1 Timothy 3:9), the mystery of iniquity for the mystery of iniquity is already at work: only he who now restrains will do so until he is taken out of the way; (2 Thessalonians 2:7), etc. In each instance, the “mystery” entails a proclamation of spiritual truth, revealed by God through divine inspiration. The New English Translation of 1 Timothy 3:16 describes the mystery of godliness as a “remarkable revelation” about our faith.

The Greek term translated as “godliness” in most English versions signifies “a proper response to the things of God, resulting in obedience and righteous living.” While on earth, Jesus exemplified pure godliness, leading Him to willingly sacrifice His life for undeserving sinners; (John 10:18). His life was devoted to the Father’s glory, always doing what pleased Him; (John 8:29). Christians pursue godliness by emulating Jesus’ example, dedicating every decision to God’s glory; (1 Corinthians 10:31).-31″>(1 Corinthians 10:31). Godliness is not merely a suggestion; it is a command (1 Peter 1:15-16; Hebrews 12:14).

The essence of godliness lies at the core of the Christian faith. The hymn that Paul recounts in 1 Timothy 3:16 encapsulates the ministry of Jesus. The godliness displayed by God’s Son is now meant to be mirrored in us. Christianity is not a set of regulations and rituals that must be carried out to please a divine being. At the center of Christianity lies the essence of godliness—the profound truth that God assumed human form to dwell among the people He created (Philippians 2:5-11). As the Son, Jesus remained completely obedient to His Father in heaven and then offered Himself as a flawless sacrifice on our behalf (John 10:18; Hebrews 4:15; 2 Corinthians 5:21). God then raised Him from the dead, thereby triumphing over death for all who have faith in Him (Matthew 28:6; 1 Corinthians 15:3-7, 13-14, 55). Through Jesus taking our place, sinful humans can be declared righteous before God and be “born again” «Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. », (John 3:3). This new birth is spiritual and leads to a transformation of the heart that results in genuine godliness (2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 3:8-10). The transformation of a life into one of godliness is the mystery that can only be understood through the revelation of God in Christ. “Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great” «AAnd without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached to the Gentiles, believed in the world, received up into glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16)