Jehovah has so arranged that only those who have their minds illuminated by the holy spirit, which follows their consecration, justification, and acceptance by the Lord, can understand and appreciate the mystery of God.

These are the ones designated by the prophet Joel as the servants and handmaidens of God; and in the gospel age God pours out his spirit upon them; which means to give them his spirit.

But in God's due time he will pour out his spirit upon all mankind, so that all can understand his wonderful plan .-- Joel 2:28,29.
[321]The hiding of this mystery was illustrated by Jehovah in the construction of the tabernacle in the wilderness and its furnishings.
The inside walls of the tabernacle were covered with pure gold.

Inside the Holy were the golden candlestick, the table covered with gold for the showbread, and the golden altar; and in the Most Holy, was the ark of the covenant.

The tabernacle inside, therefore, was beautiful, but it was hidden from the people on the outside because it was covered with three heavy layers of cloth and skins.