THE POPULAR ENCYCLOPEDIA OF BIBLE PROPHECY

MYSTERIES

Based on online Bible dictionaries and theological resources, the term “mystery” (Greek: musterion) in the Bible does not typically mean something incomprehensible or a riddle to be solved, but rather a sacred secret or divine plan that was hidden in ages past but is now revealed to believers. 

International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Online +2

Here are the key “mysteries” defined in biblical dictionaries and commentaries:

Primary Biblical Mysteries

• The Mystery of Christ (Colossians 1:26-27): This is often considered the central mystery—the indwelling of Christ in the believer (“Christ in you, the hope of glory”).

• The Mystery of the Gospel (Ephesians 6:19): The hidden message of salvation through Jesus, formerly concealed but now made known to all nations.

• The Inclusion of the Gentiles (Ephesians 3:3-6): The revelation that Gentiles are co-heirs and fellow members of the body of Christ, a concept not fully understood in the Old Testament.

• The Mystery of Godliness (1 Timothy 3:16): Refers to the incarnation and manifestation of Jesus Christ.

• The Rapture/Transformation of Bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-52): The hidden truth that believers will be changed into immortal bodies at the final trumpet.

• The Mystery of the Kingdom of God (Mark 4:11): The hidden nature of God’s rule, understood by disciples but not by those on the outside.

• The Mystery of Lawlessness (2 Thessalonians 2:7): The current, hidden working of evil that will eventually be revealed.

• The Mystery of Babylon/The Woman (Revelation 17:5, 17:7): Symbolic references to a system of worldly corruption and opposition to God. 

  King James Bible Dictionary +8

Key Themes in “Mystery” Definitions

• Revelation vs. Secret: While pagan religions had “mysteries” (secret rites for initiates), the New Testament uses the term for truths that have been revealed to everyone.

• Pauline Usage: Paul uses “mystery” most frequently (over 20 times) to explain the shift from the Old Covenant to the New.

• Spiritual Discernment: These mysteries cannot be understood by human reason alone but are revealed by the Spirit. 

  International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Online +2

Other “Mysteries” (Pseudepigrapha & Apocrypha)

• The Book of Enoch: Often referenced in studies of “mysteries” (though not part of the standard Bible canon for most), this text details the fallen angels (“Watchers”), the Nephilim, and detailed secrets of the cosmos

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For detailed research, resources like Bible Odyssey, International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE), and GotQuestions.org offer comprehensive definitions.