The Mystery of the Mind of God

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. Colossians 1:9

Perhaps you have experienced joy at unwrapping a present, followed by disappointment as you read “Batteries not included” on the box. The package is incomplete. You have this wonderful new item, but it won’t work unless you do more.

Some early Christians had a similar, but wrong, impression about the gospel. They thought that additional special or secret knowledge was required—beyond the clear teaching of the Bible. In other words, “Believe in Jesus, but also do more.”

We know the Bible is complete. In its pages we learn about our state as sinners, our need for a Savior, and the salvation God provided through the work of Jesus. No additional work or knowledge is required for us to be saved. It is already finished. God’s will for us is that we would be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth, and that we would then engage in Christian living, loving the Lord our God and loving our neighbor as ourselves.

In response to that simple but powerful message of God’s grace, we want to learn more by being in the Word at every opportunity. We gladly study the Bible to grow in our faith and understanding of God’s will, and we do so knowing that the message is complete.

In his Word, God both encourages us to pray for wisdom and promises to grant that request. We also have the example to pray for each other as we study the Scriptures and grow in understanding.

What a joy it is to know that there is nothing left to do, no secret to uncover. Everything we need for salvation has already been given to us. The package that arrived on the first Christmas was complete, and fully powered for our salvation.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of full and free salvation. Thank you for your Word, which proclaims this message and is powerful to save. Increase in us the desire to study your Word and generously grant us wisdom and understanding through your Spirit. Amen.

Dr. Benjamin Clemons serves Martin Luther College
as academic dean for the Education and Staff Ministry Programs.