"For if the mystery concealed of old is made manifest to the Apostles through the prophetic writings, and if the prophets, being wise men, understood what proceeded from their own mouths, then the prophets knew what was made manifest to the Apostles"

Origen, an early Christian theologian and philosopher, was known for his profound exegesis and a distinct technique to analyzing Scripture. The quote under consideration explores the relationship in between the mysteries of the Christian faith, the Apostolic understanding, and the insights of the Old Testimony prophets.

In this excerpt, Origen highlights the continuity and development of divine discovery from the Old Testament prophets to the New Testament Apostles. He starts by acknowledging a "mystery hid of old", suggesting there were elements of magnificent truth that were concealed or not fully understood in earlier times. This mysterious understanding is later "made manifest to the Apostles through the prophetic works". Here, Origen indicates that the Apostles, through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and their engagement with the Scriptures, concerned understand truths that were formerly veiled.

The expression "through the prophetic works" underscores Origen's belief in the vital role of the Hebrew Scriptures in the unfolding of Christian discovery. He argues that the ancient texts include the seeds of New Testament truths, which the Apostles, with the illumination of Christ's revelation, had the ability to recognize and articulate more fully.

Moreover, Origen posits that the prophets, as "smart men", had an understanding of the profound truths emerging from their own utterances. This suggests that the prophets were not simply passive channels however active individuals with some awareness of the magnificent messages they provided. Consequently, there is an implicit argument for the coherence and unity in the message of the prophets and the Apostles. As the prophets were motivated and informative, they were part of God's overarching plan, incorporating their foresight with the Apostolic discovery.

Hence, this quote from Origen highlights a theological framework where the historical continuum of discovery-- moving from mystery to manifestation-- culminates in an apostolic comprehension that does not stand in isolation but is deeply rooted in prophetic knowledge. This perspective enhances the belief in a magnificent plan regularly communicated through human history, affirming the interconnectedness and supreme unity of scriptural revelation.