Ephesians 3:3 states: "How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,)" This verse serves as a critical nexus in understanding the Apostle Paul's ministry and the theological underpinnings of his epistle to the Ephesians. The concept of "mystery" is pivotal in Pauline theology, encompassing truths that were previously hidden but are now revealed through Christ.

1. The Concept of Revelation

Paul emphasizes the divine origin of the mysteries he speaks of. His knowledge of these truths is not from human insight or study but rather through direct revelation from God. According to Matthew Henry, “Revelation is a key theme in this epistle, underlining the necessity of divine guidance in comprehending spiritual truths.”

Albert Barnes further elaborates, explaining that God's revelations are crucial for understanding the depths of His plans and purposes. Barnes notes how this aspect of revelation signifies that the truths are fundamentally spiritual and often beyond human comprehension without divine assistance.

2. The Nature of the Mystery

The "mystery" referred to here points to the inclusion of the Gentiles in the plan of salvation. Adam Clarke notes that this was a profound revelation in the context of first-century Judaism, wherein the Jewish people were considered the chosen ones, and the idea of salvation extending to the Gentiles was revolutionary.

This inclusivity reflects the broader theme of unity in Christ, which Paul expounds throughout the book of Ephesians. The mystery embodies the reconciliation of all believers, breaking down the dividing walls caused by sin and cultural differences.

3. Paul’s Authority as an Apostle

In this verse, Paul also underscores his authority as an Apostle. By stating that the mystery was revealed to him, he establishes credibility for the teachings that follow. Matthew Henry emphasizes that Paul was selected specifically to impart these truths to the Gentiles, reinforcing the legitimacy of his ministry.

Albert Barnes comments on how this assertion of authority serves to bolster the readers’ trust in his teachings. Understanding that Paul himself had been divinely enlightened lends weight to the instructions and admonitions that will come in subsequent verses.

4. The Role of Written Word

Paul notes that he has written “afore in few words,” indicating that this is not his first exposition of the mystery. Clarke elucidates this point by suggesting that his past writings serve as a framework for further understanding of this revelation. The brevity of his prior communications conveys the deep and complex nature of the mystery—enough to prompt further elaboration and reflection.

Matthew Henry adds that Paul's written words not only serve to remind the believers of previous teachings but also act to invite deeper investigation. This interplay between oral tradition and written scripture is key to the faith formation of the early church and continues to be significant for contemporary believers.

5. Implications for the Church

The implications of this revelation are profound for the ecclesiastical body and individual believers alike. As noted by Henry, the understanding of the mystery nudges believers towards unity, urging them to transcend cultural and ethnic barriers in the pursuit of Christ.

This revelation challenges the church to embrace a diverse body, embodying the very nature of Christ's mission on earth. The inclusivity demonstrated through the mystery holds practical significance for the modern church, urging congregations toward active engagement in fostering unity and love.

6. Conclusion

In summary, Ephesians 3:3 serves as a rich theological foundation for understanding the mysteries of God's grace and the expanding revelation of His kingdom. The insights provided through the commentaries of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke offer a multifaceted view of this pivotal verse, imbuing it with deep meaning that transcends time and speaks to the hearts of pastors, students, and theologians alike.

The call to embrace this divine revelation urges an authentic relationship with Christ, not only for individual salvation but also for the unification and growth of the church as the body of Christ in a fragmented world.