In this thought-provoking sermon, Pastor Bart Blair delves into the profound mystery that Paul discusses in Colossians 1:24-29, revealing how the revelation of Jesus Christ as the center of God's plan transforms our understanding of Scripture. Drawing parallels to the iconic plot twist in the Star Wars film "The Empire Strikes Back," Pastor Blair illustrates how the knowledge of Christ's identity and role reshapes our perception of the entire biblical narrative.
Pastor Blair explores the various meanings of the Greek word "mysterion," which Paul employs to describe the once-hidden truth now disclosed to believers - that Christ lives within them. This indwelling presence of Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, counters the false teachings prevalent in the Colossian church and emphasizes the cosmic significance of the gospel message.
Central to Pastor Blair's sermon is the idea that recognizing Jesus as the mystery revealed enriches our engagement with the Old Testament. He highlights how Christ's coming fulfills the law and the prophets, shedding new light on familiar stories such as Abraham's sacrifice of Isaac, Joseph's journey from slavery to savior, and Moses' role in leading the Israelites out of bondage. By seeing these narratives as foreshadowing Christ's redemptive work, Pastor Blair encourages believers to approach the Old Testament with renewed curiosity and a desire to discover how each passage points to Jesus.
Ultimately, Pastor Blair's sermon invites listeners to embrace the transformative power of understanding Christ as the key to unlocking God's plan. By reading the Bible through the lens of Jesus, Christians can deepen their connection with God's living Word and experience the life-changing reality of Christ's indwelling presence. This message encourages believers to approach Scripture with fresh eyes, eager to uncover the mysteries that lead them closer to the heart of God.