THE LIGHT OF WISDOM (10)

“To the intent that now the MANIFOLD WISDOM of GOD might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers…” – Ephesians 3:10

The LIGHT of WISDOM is manifold in manifestation: “To the intent that now the MANIFOLD WISDOM of GOD might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in heavenly places” (Eph.3:10). The apostle Paul expounded on the divine mystery of God as revealed in the Church, to the effect that both Jews and Gentiles would share equally in the Gospel of Salvation (v.6). God’s eternal purpose is for the church to demonstrate “the manifold wisdom of God” to the principalities and powers in the heavenly realms (vv.10-11).

The word “manifold” means: “many and varied; having many features and forms; diversified, intricate, complex, many-sided.” God’s Wisdom in His Plan of Salvation, is seen in the mysterious manifestation of the Church as the diverse, multi-faceted and rich community of believers. The many features and forms of fellowship in the church constitute a unique blend of harmony in diversity that reflects the Wisdom of God. There is no other human collective like it in the world. This Wisdom is both manifold and amazingly deep: “O Lord, how great are Your works! Your thoughts are very deep” (Psa.92:5); “O LORD, how manifold are Your works! IN WISDOM You have made them all” (Psa.104:24a).

Paul referred to the Church as “the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been REVEALED to His saints” (Col.1:26). Christ as Wisdom Personified, reveals Himself to the world through His Church (1Cor.1:24,30). Christ in us is the Hope of Glory (Col.1:27). In Him “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Col.2:3). It’s amazing how God chose to package the treasure of His manifold Wisdom in fragile, human “jars of clay” (2Cor.4:7-11). God’s Manifold Wisdom confuses principalities and powers, as they cannot fathom the mysteries and moves of God through His Church!

God is willing to grant Believers in Christ access into His many-sided Wisdom. We only need to ask, believe, and receive (Jam.1:5). As we walk in this manifold wisdom, our attitudes, words, and actions will reflect His Wisdom. The major and most fundamental aspect of this Manifold Wisdom relates to Salvation. Paul illustrated this in the life of Timothy, his son in the faith: “and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to MAKE YOU WISE for SALVATION through faith which is in Christ Jesus” (2Tim.3:15). God’s Word can likewise make us wise for deliverance, healing, parenting, prosperity, and diverse other dimensions of life and destiny.

The manifold manifestations of Wisdom could also relate to: Personal progress, healthy living, mental excellence, emotional maturity, spiritual growth, rewarding relationship, meaningful marriage, healthy friendship, harmonious home, fulfilled family, positive parenting, productive and God-honouring work, profitable businesses, financial fulfilment, Kingdom prosperity, covenant wealth, skilful vocations, prosperous career, purposeful profession, acceptable service, faithful stewardship, maximised ministry, victorious warfare, good success, and impactful living.