Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "secret" in the Bible often pertains to divine mysteries, hidden truths, or confidential matters that are revealed by God in His timing. The term is used in various contexts, ranging from the mysteries of God's kingdom to the private matters of individuals. Below are key scriptures and themes related to the concept of "secret" as found in the Bible.Divine Secrets and Mysteries 1. God's Sovereignty in Revelation: The Bible frequently emphasizes that God alone holds the ultimate knowledge of all things, and He reveals secrets according to His will. In Deuteronomy 29:29, it is written, "The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may follow all the words of this law." 2. Prophetic Revelations: Throughout the Scriptures, God reveals His secrets to His prophets. Amos 3:7 states, "Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets." This underscores the role of prophets as recipients of divine secrets meant for the guidance of God's people. 3. Mysteries of the Kingdom: In the New Testament, Jesus speaks of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. In Matthew 13:11, He tells His disciples, "The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them." This indicates that understanding of spiritual truths is granted to those who are receptive to God's revelation. Human Secrets and Integrity 1. The Heart's Secrets: The Bible acknowledges that humans have secrets within their hearts, which are fully known to God. Psalm 44:21 declares, "Would not God have discovered it, since He knows the secrets of the heart?" This highlights God's omniscience and the futility of hiding anything from Him. 2. Confession and Forgiveness: The Scriptures encourage believers to bring their hidden sins into the light through confession. Proverbs 28:13 advises, "He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy." This reflects the biblical principle that transparency before God leads to forgiveness and healing. 3. Integrity in Conduct: Jesus teaches about the importance of sincerity and integrity, even in secret actions. In Matthew 6:4, He instructs, "so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." This passage emphasizes that God values the intentions of the heart over outward appearances. Spiritual Warfare and Secrets 1. Hidden Wisdom: The apostle Paul speaks of a hidden wisdom that is revealed to believers through the Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 2:7, he writes, "No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began." This wisdom is contrasted with the wisdom of the world and is accessible through the Holy Spirit. 2. Armor of God: Ephesians 6:11-12 discusses the spiritual battle against the "powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." While the strategies of the enemy may be secretive, believers are equipped with the armor of God to stand firm. Eschatological Secrets 1. The Return of Christ: The timing of Christ's return is one of the great secrets of the Bible. Jesus Himself states in Matthew 24:36, "But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." This secret underscores the need for vigilance and readiness among believers. 2. Revelation of All Things: Ultimately, the Bible assures that all secrets will be revealed. Luke 12:2-3 warns, "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs." These scriptures collectively illustrate the multifaceted nature of secrets in the biblical narrative, encompassing divine mysteries, human integrity, spiritual warfare, and eschatological truths. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 29:29The secret things belong to the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law. Nave's Topical Index Deuteronomy 31:21 1 Samuel 16:7 2 Samuel 7:20 2 Kings 19:27 Psalm 25:14 Psalm 44:21 Psalm 90:8 Ecclesiastes 12:14 Daniel 2:28,47 Amos 3:7 Mark 4:22 Luke 8:16,17 Romans 2:16 1 Corinthians 4:5 Hebrews 4:12,13 Resources What does the Bible say about keeping secrets? | GotQuestions.orgIs it wrong to be a Christian secretly in order to preserve your own life? | GotQuestions.org How does my personal, private sin affect others? | GotQuestions.org Secret: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |