1 Timothy 3:16

1 Timothy 3:16 – Beyond all question, the mystery of godliness is great: He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.

          A great mystery has been revealed to you and me. For many years this mystery had been hidden and only revealed to certain people as God prophesied through them, but now it is revealed to all. Jesus is the mystery revealed. He is the way to godliness. It was Him who showed us the way to live.

           As Paul describes the mystery here we see him describe Jesus, “He appeared in a body, was vindicated by the Spirit, was preached among the nations, was believed on in the world, was taken up in glory.” So how do we become godly? I think the key lies in taking part in this message. Of course it begins with us believing and receiving Christ into your life as Savior, but there are a lot of “saved” people who do not practice godliness.

          Godliness begins with salvation, but it goes beyond that. We know that Christ appeared and was vindicated and was taken up in glory, but not everyone does. This passage talks of Jesus being believed on in the world, but people can’t believe without hearing. In order for them to believe someone has to preach. Who’s going to preach? That responsibility falls to you and me.

You want to walk in godliness? Believe the message and preach it. And as you are preaching make sure that you walk according to your words. As you do this you will draw nearer to God and be more like Him in true righteousness and godliness.