A credal song of the early church

READ: Jeremiah 41,42; Psalms 116; 1 Timothy 3

SCRIPTURE:  1 Timothy 3: 16 Beyond all question, the mystery from which true godliness springs is great: He appeared in the flesh, was vindicated by the Spirit, as seen by angels, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

OBSERVATION: A.W. Tozer, a great man of God, once said, “Christians don’t tell lies – they just go to church and sing them.” His intention was not to criticize all the Christians and worship songs. Many Christians sing the lyrics of the songs without even believing or practicing them. While there are thousands of scripture-based, inspirational, and meaningful songs, some popular worship songs merely stir the emotions of worshippers instead of helping people to express their faith and convictions about God. In 1 Timothy 3:16, Paul gives us a few lines of a song of the early church that tells us of their faith confession. Paul speaks about the mystery of godliness. Here the word mystery does not mean that it would be difficult to know but tells us the importance of the truth revealed in Jesus Christ, which was hidden for ages. Godliness is a mystery to worldly people, for they cannot understand it with their human wisdom. But, a follower of Christ learns and understands “the deep truths of the faith” in the church (1 Tim.3:9). The mystery or secret of godliness is Jesus Christ (Rom.11:25; Col.1:26). Paul affirms that the mystery of godliness is great. For Paul, there should be no doubt or question about Jesus, the mystery of godliness. 

The six lines that Paul refers to in verse 16 express profound truths about Christ. They succinctly tell us important details about Jesus Christ, from his incarnation to ascension. This song says the divinity of Jesus Christ. Not only that, the incarnated, crucified, and the resurrected Christ is preached among the nations; millions of people believe in him. Christ’s incarnation explains God’s love for us. His ascension gives us hope for the future and eternity. Apostle Paul says, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Col.1:27). Let us sing, confess and proclaim the King of glory.

APPLICATION: When I speak and sing about Jesus, my words should reflect what I believe about him. I should not do lip service to God but serve him faithfully with all of my heart. My faith in Christ should conform with my life in Christ.

PRAYER:  Father God, thank you for revealing to me your son Jesus Christ through the Bible. Holy Spirit, help me to serve God faithfully without any hypocrisy and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ with love. Amen.

- Arputharaj Samuel
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