Was the word 'men' added by translators in Ephesians 3:9?
Yes, the word 'men' in Ephesians 3:9 was added by translators. Paul writes 'to make all see' the fellowship of the mystery; the word can be left in or taken out without violating Scripture. This addition does not change the meaning.
Les explains that in Ephesians 3:8–9 Paul describes his calling to preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ and to make all see the fellowship of the mystery. The word 'men' was added by the translator, so it can be left in or taken out without violating Scripture. The context contrasts the mystery hidden in past ages with its now being revealed to His holy apostles and prophets by the Holy Spirit.
And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
More Questions
What does 'to make all men see' mean in Ephesians 3:9?
Les explains that “to make all men see” is clarified as “or understand,” so it is not merely physical sight but comprehension of the fellowship of the mystery. That mystery is called the body of truth, which from the beginning of the world had been hidden in the mind of God, who created all things by Jesus Christ. Les connects this to God’s pattern of keeping a secret until He is ready to reveal it, and then expecting mankind to believe it. He also ties the same God of Ephesians 3 to the God of Genesis 1.
Can Ephesians 3:9 be twisted to mean something else?
The Scripture about this secret cannot be twisted to mean something else.
Can Ephesians 3:9 be interpreted to mean something other than a previously unrevealed mystery?
Paul's proclamation that he is revealing a previously hidden secret cannot be twisted to mean something else.