Colossians 1:27

KJV

To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

KJV (with Strong's)

To whom {G3739} God {G2316} would {G2309} make known {G1107} what {G5101} is the riches {G4149} of the glory {G1391} of this {G5127} mystery {G3466} among {G1722} the Gentiles {G1484}; which {G3739} is {G2076} Christ {G5547} in {G1722} you {G5213}, the hope {G1680} of glory {G1391}:

Complete Jewish Bible

To them God wanted to make known how great among the Gentiles is the glorious richness of this secret. And the secret is this: the Messiah is united with you people! In that rests your hope of glory!

Berean Standard Bible

To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

American Standard Version

to whom God was pleased to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Colossians 1:27 unveils the magnificent truth of the Gospel's universal scope, revealing that God, by His sovereign will, chose to disclose a profound mystery previously hidden: the indwelling presence of Christ within believers, particularly among the Gentiles. This divine reality is not merely a theological concept but the very essence of future glory, offering a confident and living anticipation of ultimate transformation and full communion with God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Colossians 1:27 stands as a climactic declaration within Paul's opening theological exposition. It immediately follows [Colossians 1:26](/colossians/1-26 "Colossians 1:26 - The Revealed Mystery"), where Paul states that "the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations" is now "made manifest to his saints." This verse then precisely defines that mystery, building on Paul's assertion of Christ's supremacy in [Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ") and the reconciliation accomplished through His death in [Colossians 1:21-23](/colossians/1-21-23 "Colossians 1:21-23 - Reconciliation Through Christ"). The verse serves as a foundational truth against the backdrop of the Colossian heresy, which sought to diminish Christ's unique role and add human traditions or esoteric knowledge to salvation. By emphasizing "Christ in you," Paul grounds their hope and identity firmly in the Person of Jesus, countering any Gnostic tendencies or legalistic practices.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The inclusion of Gentiles ("éthnos") into God's redemptive plan was a radical concept in the 1st century AD, often met with resistance from Jewish traditionalists. For centuries, God's covenant blessings were primarily associated with Israel. The early church wrestled significantly with this paradigm shift, as evidenced in the Jerusalem Council in [Acts 15](/acts/15 "Acts 15 - The Jerusalem Council"). Paul, as the "apostle to the Gentiles" ([Romans 11:13](/romans/11-13 "Romans 11:13 - Paul, Apostle to the Gentiles")), dedicated his ministry to proclaiming this truth, often facing persecution for it. The Colossian church itself was likely composed of a significant Gentile population, making this revelation particularly pertinent to their identity and understanding of God's universal grace. The "mystery" was not a secret cultic practice, but a divinely ordained plan for cosmic reconciliation and the formation of a new humanity in Christ, transcending ethnic and social divisions.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes of Colossians and Paul's broader theology. The theme of **Christ's Supremacy and Sufficiency** is paramount, as "Christ in you" underscores His active, indwelling presence as the source of all spiritual life and hope, rendering external rituals or philosophical systems unnecessary. The **Nature of the Gospel** is revealed as a universal message, breaking down the long-standing barrier between Jew and Gentile, a truth Paul passionately defends in [Ephesians 2:11-22](/ephesians/2-11-22 "Ephesians 2:11-22 - One New Humanity in Christ"). The concept of **Divine Revelation** is central, highlighting God's sovereign initiative in making known what was previously concealed, emphasizing that spiritual truth is received through divine disclosure, not human discovery. Finally, the theme of **Christian Hope** is redefined, moving beyond mere optimism to a confident, eschatological assurance rooted in the present reality of Christ's indwelling, guaranteeing future glory and transformation, as further elaborated in [Romans 8:18-25](/romans/8-18-25 "Romans 8:18-25 - Future Glory").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **make known (Greek, _gnōrízō'_):** From a derivative of γινώσκω; to make known; subjectively, to know. This word emphasizes God's active, intentional disclosure of truth. It is not something discovered by human intellect but divinely revealed, highlighting God's initiative in unveiling His plan.
* **mystery (Greek, _mystḗrion'_):** From a derivative of (to shut the mouth); a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites). In the New Testament, it signifies a divine truth previously hidden or unknown, but now revealed by God, particularly through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It's not a puzzle to be solved, but a revelation to be received.
* **Gentiles (Greek, _éthnos'_):** Probably from ἔθω; a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan). This term underscores the radical nature of God's inclusion of non-Jewish peoples into His covenant blessings, a groundbreaking aspect of the New Covenant.
* **hope (Greek, _elpís'_):** From a primary (to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstractly or concretely) or confidence. In the New Testament, "hope" is not a mere wish but a confident, certain expectation of future good, rooted in God's faithfulness and the reality of Christ's resurrection and indwelling presence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles":** This opening clause establishes God's sovereign will and active intention ("God would make known") in revealing a profound truth. The recipients are "the Gentiles," emphasizing the universal scope of this revelation, a radical departure from the previous exclusive focus on Israel. The "riches of the glory" highlight the immense value, abundance, and magnificent nature of this divine disclosure, underscoring its profound significance and spiritual wealth. The "mystery" is the core subject, a truth previously concealed but now unveiled.
* **"which is Christ in you":** This is the precise identification of the mystery's content. The relative pronoun "which" (G3739, *hós*) refers back to the "mystery," clarifying that the mystery *is* "Christ in you." The preposition "in" (G1722, *en*) signifies an intimate, spiritual union, not merely an external influence or intellectual assent. It speaks to the Holy Spirit's work of making Christ's presence real and active within every believer, establishing a deep, personal union with the resurrected Lord. This is the heart of the New Covenant reality.
* **"the hope of glory":** This phrase defines the outcome and ultimate significance of "Christ in you." The indwelling Christ is not just a present reality but the absolute guarantee and confident anticipation ("hope") of future "glory" (G1391, *dóxa*). This glory encompasses future transformation, eternal life, full communion with God, and participation in Christ's resurrected state. The presence of Christ within the believer serves as the down payment and certain pledge of this ultimate glorious inheritance, providing an unshakeable anchor for the soul.

#### Literary Devices
Colossians 1:27 employs several powerful literary devices. The central device is **Mystery**, which, as discussed, is a theological term for a divinely revealed truth previously hidden. Paul uses this concept to elevate the significance of the Gospel's universal reach and the indwelling Christ. The phrase "riches of the glory" is an example of **Hyperbole** and **Metaphor**, emphasizing the immeasurable value and splendor of this divine revelation; it's not merely a truth, but a spiritual treasure of unparalleled magnificence. The use of **Paradox** is also evident: a "mystery" is typically something unknowable, yet here it is "made known," highlighting God's active disclosure. Finally, the succinct declaration "Christ in you, the hope of glory" functions as a powerful **Aphorism** or **Concise Statement of Truth**, distilling a profound theological reality into a memorable and impactful phrase that serves as a cornerstone of Christian identity and eschatological expectation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Colossians 1:27 articulates a core truth of the New Covenant: God's redemptive plan, once veiled, is now openly revealed, extending His saving grace to all humanity, particularly the Gentiles. This revelation is centered on the profound reality of Christ's indwelling presence in believers, which is the very guarantee of future glory. This "mystery" dismantles ancient ethnic barriers, demonstrating God's impartial love and His desire to form a new people united in Christ. The indwelling Christ transforms believers from within, empowering them for righteous living and assuring them of their ultimate destiny in God's glorious presence. This truth underscores the radical inclusivity of the Gospel and the transformative power of a personal relationship with Jesus.

* [Ephesians 3:4-6](/ephesians/3-4-6 "Ephesians 3:4-6 - The Mystery Revealed to Gentiles")
* [Romans 8:10-11](/romans/8-10-11 "Romans 8:10-11 - Christ's Indwelling Spirit")
* [1 Peter 1:3-4](/1_peter/1-3-4 "1 Peter 1:3-4 - A Living Hope")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Colossians 1:27 offers profound implications for every believer, anchoring our identity and hope in an unshakeable truth. To grasp that "Christ in you, the hope of glory" means recognizing that our spiritual wealth, our present empowerment, and our future destiny are not contingent on our performance, external rituals, or human wisdom, but solely on the living, indwelling presence of Jesus Christ. This truth liberates us from the burden of striving for acceptance and instead invites us into a life of rest and reliance upon His sufficiency. It calls us to live with an awareness of His constant presence, allowing His character to be formed in us daily. Furthermore, understanding that this mystery is "among the Gentiles" should ignite within us a passion for missions and evangelism, reminding us that the glorious hope we possess is meant for all peoples, transcending every cultural and social divide. Our lives, therefore, become a living testament to this glorious mystery, radiating the hope of Christ to a world desperately in need.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth of "Christ in you" impact your daily sense of self-worth and security?**
* **In what ways does understanding "the hope of glory" shape your perspective on present difficulties or future uncertainties?**
* **How can you more intentionally live out the reality of Christ's indwelling presence in your interactions and decisions today?**
* **What does "the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles" prompt you to do regarding God's global mission?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "the mystery" in Colossians 1:27?**

Answer: In the New Testament, "mystery" (Greek: *mystḗrion*) does not refer to something unknowable or puzzling, but rather a divine truth that was previously hidden or concealed in God's eternal plan but has now been supernaturally revealed, particularly through the person and work of Jesus Christ and the proclamation of the Gospel. In [Colossians 1:27](/colossians/1-27 "Colossians 1:27 - Christ in You, the Hope of Glory"), this specific mystery is identified as "Christ in you, the hope of glory," especially as it relates to the inclusion of the Gentiles into God's covenant blessings, placing them on equal footing with Jewish believers. This revelation, once a secret, is now openly declared for all to know and experience.

**How is "Christ in you" the "hope of glory"?**

Answer: "Christ in you" signifies the intimate, spiritual union that believers have with the resurrected Lord through the indwelling Holy Spirit. This is not merely an intellectual belief but a profound, transformative reality where Christ's life, power, and presence are active within the believer. This indwelling Christ is the "hope of glory" because His presence within us is the absolute guarantee and down payment of our future glorification. It means that our ultimate transformation, our eternal life, and our full communion with God in His glorious presence are not based on our own efforts but are secured by the living Christ dwelling within us. As [Romans 8:11](/romans/8-11 "Romans 8:11 - The Spirit of Him Who Raised Jesus") states, "if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." The presence of Christ within is the certain pledge of our future with Him in glory.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Colossians 1:27 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the very embodiment of the "mystery" revealed. Before Christ's advent, the full scope of God's redemptive plan, particularly the inclusion of the Gentiles, remained largely veiled. However, in Christ, this long-hidden truth is not only unveiled but personified. Jesus Himself is the "riches of the glory" of this mystery, for in Him "dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" ([Colossians 2:9](/colossians/2-9 "Colossians 2:9 - Fullness of God in Christ")). The phrase "Christ in you" points directly to the New Covenant reality inaugurated by His atoning death and resurrection, where the Holy Spirit makes Christ's presence real and active within every believer, regardless of their ethnic background. This indwelling presence is the direct result of Christ's finished work on the cross, which broke down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile ([Ephesians 2:14](/ephesians/2-14 "Ephesians 2:14 - Christ Our Peace")). Furthermore, Christ Himself is "the hope of glory" because His resurrection is the firstfruits of our own future resurrection and glorification ([1 Corinthians 15:20-23](/1_corinthians/15-20-23 "1 Corinthians 15:20-23 - Christ, the Firstfruits")). He is not merely the means to glory, but the very object and guarantee of it, ensuring that all who are "in Christ" will share in His eternal glory ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Romans 8:17 - Heirs with Christ")). Thus, Colossians 1:27 profoundly reveals Christ as the central figure of God's universal redemptive plan, the indwelling source of spiritual life, and the certain pledge of our glorious future.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 14:20

At that day ye shall know that I [am] in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

Romans 8:10

¶ And if Christ [be] in you, the body [is] dead because of sin; but the Spirit [is] life because of righteousness.

Ephesians 3:16

That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;

Ephesians 3:17

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

1 John 4:4

¶ Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Galatians 2:20

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

1 Corinthians 3:16

¶ Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?