His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to his eternal purpose that he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Eph. 3:10-11)

Most people have heard the story of Joseph’s multicolored coat, but don’t know that the story receives special attention as the Apostle Paul describes God’s purpose for his church.

The word ancient translators used to describe Joseph’s multicolored coat is the same term used to describe God’s “manifold wisdom,” as he builds his church from every nation, tribe, people, and language.

The gospel of grace is not a one-colored story. It’s a multicolored mission that embraces diverse personalities, ethnicities, and generations. So that all the world would be reached with the grace of Christ, he calls different kinds of people from throughout the nations into his church to reach all nations.

Sometimes we think it is very “nice” of us to welcome those unlike us into our fellowship. The Bible actually says that it is necessary for us to do so in order to fulfill Christ’s mission for our churches.

When Jesus changes us so that we receive others despite differences, antipathies, and prejudices, even spiritual powers in the heavenly realms are awed by the wisdom and might of God’s transforming grace. Even the angels marvel and say, “What a God!”

Prayer:
Father, thank you for the multicolored story of your redeeming love in Christ that claimed me when I was not of your original chosen people. Help me now to welcome all into your mission of spreading the good news of grace to all.