Divine Secrets: Are They Hidden or Revealed?
In this article, you will learn how Deuteronomy 29:29 contradicts Proverbs 25:2, Jeremiah 33:3, Matthew 11:25, 1 Corinthians 2:10 and Amos 3:7. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The Bible offers a tapestry of verses that touch upon the mysteries of divine knowledge. At the heart of this discussion is the apparent contradiction between different passages about whether God's secrets are meant to stay hidden or be revealed to humanity.
Starting with Deuteronomy 29:29, we learn that "the secret things belong unto the Lord our God." This verse suggests that some divine knowledge is beyond human comprehension, intentionally kept hidden by God. Just as a parent might withhold certain truths from a child until they are ready, God keeps certain mysteries undisclosed for reasons we might not yet grasp.
However, contrasting messages appear elsewhere. Proverbs 25:2, for instance, suggests a duality in the divine act of concealment and human pursuit: while it is the glory of God to conceal, it is also the glory of kings to seek understanding. This suggests that humanity plays a role in uncovering these secrets, much like a detective piecing together clues in a mystery.
Jeremiah 33:3 offers a more direct invitation: God encourages people to call upon Him, promising to reveal "great and unsearchable things." It's as if the door to hidden knowledge is ajar for those who earnestly seek it.
In the New Testament, Matthew 11:25 and 1 Corinthians 2:10 further complicate the picture. Jesus speaks of truths revealed to "babes" and hidden from the wise, while Paul highlights the Holy Spirit's role in unveiling divine mysteries. These verses suggest selective revelation, akin to teachers who adapt their lessons to fit the learners.
Amos 3:7 gives a definitive assurance that God reveals His plans to His prophets, suggesting that while many may remain in the dark, some are chosen to receive divine insights.
These seemingly contradictory messages compel us to ponder: Are divine secrets eternally hidden, or is there an avenue for revelation? The Bible, much like a complex puzzle, invites us to explore diverse interpretations.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Deuteronomy 29:29 | The secret [things belong] unto the LORD our God: but those [things which are] revealed [belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law. |
| 2. | Proverbs 25:2 | [It is] the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings [is] to search out a matter. |
| 3. | Jeremiah 33:3 | Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. [mighty: or, hidden] |
| 4. | Matthew 11:25 | At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. |
| 5. | 1 Corinthians 2:10 | But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. |
| 6. | Amos 3:7 | Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets. |