Can We Ever Truly Know Everything?

In this article, you will learn how 1 Corinthians 13:12 contradicts 1 John 3:2, Job 11:7 and Deuteronomy 29:29. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..

In the Bible, there are fascinating verses that delve into the nature of human understanding and knowledge, sometimes presenting ideas that seem to contradict each other. A prime example of this is found in 1 Corinthians 13:12. The Apostle Paul likens our current understanding to looking into a foggy mirror: we see things unclearly and only in part. He suggests that a time will come when we will see everything perfectly.

However, when we consider other parts of the Bible, a different picture emerges. Take 1 John 3:2, for example. This verse presents a hopeful future where believers will see God as He is, implying that we will attain full knowledge. It's as if moving from a blurry, foggy reflection to a sharp, clear image. But, does this promise mean we will know everything?

Job 11:7 introduces yet another layer to this conundrum. It asks rhetorically if humans can truly comprehend God’s mysteries, implying that there will always be limitations to our understanding. This is akin to standing in front of a great ocean; we see part of it, but its depths and expanse remain beyond our reach.

Adding to this complexity, Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us that some things are reserved solely for God, suggesting that certain knowledge will permanently escape our grasp. Imagine a locked room where only the owner holds the key; no matter how much we learn, some secrets stay inside.

These verses present a thought-provoking dialogue about knowledge. From the promise of understanding in 1 Corinthians to the reserved mysteries in Deuteronomy and Job, they invite us to consider the scope and limits of human understanding. How much can we truly know, and what will always remain a mystery? As we ponder these questions, we're encouraged to embrace both the pursuit of knowledge and the acceptance of mystery.