Christ in You, the Hope of Glory

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.

Colossians 1:27

In the middle of Paul’s letters lies a hidden gem—Colossians. Often overshadowed by its neighboring epistles, this short book holds a powerful message that resonates with believers to this day. In Colossians 1:27, we encounter a profound truth: “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” Let us embark on a journey to uncover the mystery behind these words and understand the transformative impact they have on our lives.

Exploring the Context

Before delving into the depth of this verse, let us first understand its historical context. Paul wrote the letter to the church in Colossae while in prison in Rome. In this passage, Paul concludes a sentence that begins with verse 25, emphasizing the importance of the mystery he wishes to unveil. The word “mystery” appears twice, prompting us to explore its significance further. We find a parallel in Ephesians 3:3, where Paul briefly touches on the mystery of the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s plan. However, in Colossians, Paul expands on this concept, highlighting the profound truth that both Jews and Gentiles are equal heirs in the body of Christ.

The Mystery of Christ in You

Central to Colossians 1:27 is the phrase “Christ in you.” This direct verbiage used by Paul is striking and impactful. It challenges our understanding of the Trinity, revealing that God, being three in one, dwells within each and every believer. While we often speak of the “Lion Within Us,” we are referring to the Holy Spirit guiding and dwelling within us. This Truth shatters the limitations of our human comprehension. Many struggle with the idea of God residing within them, believing themselves to be too flawed or unworthy. However, through surrendering to the lordship of Jesus Christ, our old selves die, and the mystery of Christ living in us is unveiled. This intimate connection transforms us from the inside out.

The Hope of Glory

Accompanying the revelation of Christ in us is the hope of glory. As believers, this hope becomes the cornerstone of our faith. It transcends earthly circumstances and promises eternal life. Amidst a world plagued by despair and turmoil, where can we find true hope that matters? The answer lies in the name above all names—Jesus. Whether we find ourselves in the depths of despair, trapped in the chaos of life, or burdened by our past, the hope of glory remains accessible to all who surrender and believe. It is through this transformative understanding that we can experience the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Sharing the Mystery

Having received the hope of glory, we are called to share it with others. Our world is filled with individuals who have lost hope, longing for something meaningful and enduring. In the face of darkness, the message of Christ in us shines brightly. We must not keep this life-transforming Truth hidden within us. Instead, let us actively share the incredible news of salvation through Jesus Christ. By helping others discover the mystery of Christ within them, we empower them to unleash the dormant potential and power that lies within—the Lion Within.