3:16 mystery of godliness. See note on v. 9. What follows may be a fragment of an early Christian hymn.

He was manifested in the flesh. A reference to the Incarnation, with a hint at Christ’s preexistence.

vindicated by the Spirit. A reference to Christ’s resurrection (Rom. 1:4).

seen by angels. A reference to the Ascension (Acts 1:10, 11).

proclaimed among the nations. See “The Authentication of Scripture” at 2 Cor. 4:6.

taken up in glory. A reference to Christ’s exaltation to the right hand of God (Acts 7:56).