How can we discern when to share or withhold spiritual revelations today? The sealed voice of thunder Revelation 10:4: “And when the seven thunders had spoken, I was about to write, but I heard a voice from heaven saying, ‘Seal up what the seven thunders have said and do not write it down.’ ” • John, a faithful eyewitness, is commanded not to record a portion of divine revelation. • The text affirms that God Himself can choose both to reveal and to conceal. • From this snapshot we learn that withholding truth is sometimes an act of obedience, not disobedience. Why God sometimes withholds revelation • Protection: Some truths would overwhelm, confuse, or endanger their hearers (John 16:12). • Timing: God often reserves insight for the right season (Daniel 12:4). • Judgment: Concealment can be a form of testing hearts (Isaiah 6:9-10). • Sovereignty: The Lord reminds us that “the secret things belong to the LORD our God” (Deuteronomy 29:29). Foundational filters before speaking 1. Alignment with Scripture – God never contradicts Himself (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. Motive – Is the aim love that edifies (1 Corinthians 8:1) or self-promotion? 3. Audience readiness – “Do not give dogs what is holy; do not throw your pearls before pigs” (Matthew 7:6). 4. Church order – Prophets are subject to prophets (1 Corinthians 14:29-33). Mutual accountability governs sharing. Practical questions to ask privately • Does this revelation exalt Christ or merely fascinate? • Will it build up, comfort, or encourage (1 Corinthians 14:3)? • Has it been tested by mature believers (Proverbs 11:14)? • Do I sense the Spirit’s peace (Colossians 3:15) rather than pressure? When it is wiser to stay silent • If details cannot be validated by Scripture. • If sharing would sow fear, pride, or division. • If spiritual leadership counsels restraint. • If clarity is lacking—“For God is not a God of disorder” (1 Corinthians 14:33). • If personal sin or bitterness clouds perception (James 3:14-16). Marks that it is time to speak • Clear biblical confirmation and inner conviction. • Humble eagerness to serve, not impress. • Receptive listeners whose hearts God has prepared (Acts 16:14). • The revelation addresses a current need for guidance, correction, or hope. • Endorsement by trusted, Spirit-filled believers. Living in obedient tension • Walk daily in the Word so that counterfeit messages are obvious. • Cultivate the fruit of patience; not every insight is for immediate broadcast. • Submit both revelation and timing to the Lord; He governs both open doors and closed scrolls (Revelation 3:7). • Remember John’s example: the same hand that penned Revelation also laid the pen down when God said “Seal it up.” |
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