“. . . Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.” (Colossians 1:27b-28)
Paul’s words remind us that all men are sinners, those who seem to be the most altruistic, as well as those whom we praise and glorify for their talents, looks and accomplishments. But all men are alienated or separated from God. No one may dwell in unity with God, no matter how many good works and noble deeds they perform, or how many awards they win. All our righteous deeds are as filthy rags in the sight of the Lord. The only way to resolve this situation is by faith in the sacrifice of Christ on the cross. Those who believe are declared righteous, as Abraham was. Only those who have faith are counted blameless and above reproach by God, even despite the sins they still commit. All those who have faith in Christ, in His atoning sacrifice are clothed in His righteousness. Thus when the Father sees the faithful and humble believer He sees Jesus. The good works they do, and the holy life they pursue are in response to, not the cause of, their oneness with Christ.
This then is the mystery Paul speaks of, a mystery hidden but now revealed in the servants of Christ. God has opened the way of salvation to all men and women by faith in Jesus, not just the Jews, the Chosen people, or through works of the Law. The mystery is that in Christ Jesus all are saved but only those who accept that truth by faith are one with God the Father Almighty. Such a truth is hard to accept in our culture where the dominant teaching is that each individual controls his or her own destiny, that each of us can earn our way to heaven, whatever form that may take. Yet this is a lie.
In heaven there will be no religions, no faith in or worship of any gods but the Lord God Almighty. This is because all religions, except Christianity, are evil lies that lead people away from the one true God. This is why, as Paul exhorts us, we ought to struggle with all our strength and resources to proclaim the wisdom of God in Christ Jesus to everyone. He alone is the hope of glory for all mankind.