26-29 This mystery has been kept in the dark for a long time, but now it’s out in the open. God wanted everyone, not just Jews, to know this rich and glorious secret inside and out, regardless of their background, regardless of their religious standing. The mystery in a nutshell is just this: Christ is in you, so therefore you can look forward to sharing in God’s glory. It’s that simple. That is the substance of our Message. We preach Christ, warning people not to add to the Message. We teach in a spirit of profound common sense so that we can bring each person to maturity. To be mature is to be basic. Christ! No more, no less. That’s what I’m working so hard at day after day, year after year, doing my best with the energy God so generously gives me.

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26 the mystery(A) that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known(B) among the Gentiles the glorious riches(C) of this mystery, which is Christ in you,(D) the hope of glory.

28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing(E) and teaching everyone with all wisdom,(F) so that we may present everyone fully mature(G) in Christ. 29 To this end I strenuously(H) contend(I) with all the energy Christ so powerfully works in me.(J)

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