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G3466 · Greek · New Testament
μυστήριον
musterion
Noun, neuter
mystery, secret, hidden truth now revealed

Definition

Not an unknowable secret but a truth formerly hidden and now disclosed — specifically the plan of God revealed in the gospel. Paul uses musterion for the inclusion of Gentiles in the body of Christ (Eph 3:3-6).

Usage & Theological Significance

The NT transforms the Greek word for pagan mystery-cult secrets into a word for the open gospel. God's mystery is now published, not hoarded — proclaimed to all nations (Rom 16:25-26).

Key Bible Verses

Ephesians 3:6 This mystery [musterion] is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body.
Colossians 1:27 God chose to make known...the riches of the glory of this mystery [musterion], which is Christ in you.
Romans 16:25-26 The mystery [musterion] kept secret for long ages but now disclosed.

Word Study

Paul's mystery = Christ + Gentiles together = one body. This was hidden in the OT's shadow but is now proclaimed. The preaching of the mystery is itself eschatological — it heralds the age of fulfillment.

Related Words

External Resources

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