The mystery of godliness (1) - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2025

Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness.
1 Timothy 3:16.

The mystery of godliness (1)
The content of this verse, which will occupy us on the following Wednesdays in more detail, has called forth wonder and worship among many believers.

Six meaningful statements about the Son of God are entitled "The mystery of godliness". The word "mystery" occurs several times in the New Testament and generally indicates what was concealed in Old Testament times, but revealed by Christ and the apostles and prophets of the New Testament, and can now be understood by all born again Christians. Godliness, as it is described here, results from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers.

What does godliness actually mean? Piety or reverence for God also expresses the sense. We recognise at once the perfect example of a godly life in the Lord Jesus Himself. There has never been a man on earth who sought to honour God more than He. Through Him we learn what true godliness is.

The Lord Jesus is no longer on earth. Is godliness then no longer to be seen? Indeed, it is! For one thing, the church of the living God is designated as "the pillar of the truth" (v. 15). The truth is, so to speak, engraved in it for all to see. Godliness is an integral part of it. Then there are individual believers, who are closely associated with the risen Christ and reveal His ways on earth.

Christ Himself, not laws or principles, is the power and motive behind a life led to honour God.

(to be continued next Wednesday)

Today's reading: Hosea 5:1-15 · James 2:14-26