The concepts of the "hidden" and the "revealed" are significant themes throughout the Bible, reflecting the nature of God's wisdom, His divine plan, and the unfolding of His purposes in human history. These themes are intricately woven into the narrative of Scripture, illustrating the tension between divine mystery and revelation.

The Hidden

The notion of the "hidden" in the Bible often pertains to the mysteries of God and His sovereign will, which are beyond human comprehension. Deuteronomy 29:29 states, "The hidden things belong to the LORD our God, but the revealed things belong to us and to our children forever, so that we may follow all the words of this law." This verse underscores the distinction between what God chooses to keep concealed and what He discloses for the benefit of His people.

In the Old Testament, the hidden aspects of God's plan are frequently associated with His wisdom and knowledge. Job 11:7 asks, "Can you fathom the deep things of God or discover the limits of the Almighty?" This rhetorical question highlights the inscrutability of God's nature and purposes. Similarly, Isaiah 55:8-9 declares, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."

The New Testament continues this theme, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In Matthew 11:25 , Jesus praises the Father, saying, "I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children." Here, the hidden wisdom of God is contrasted with human understanding, emphasizing the need for humility and faith to grasp divine truths.

The Revealed

While certain aspects of God's will remain hidden, the Bible also emphasizes the revelation of His character, purposes, and salvation plan. The act of revelation is central to the biblical narrative, as God makes Himself known to humanity through various means.

In the Old Testament, God reveals Himself through His creation, His covenant with Israel, and His prophetic word. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." This natural revelation is complemented by God's specific revelation through the Law and the Prophets, as seen in passages like Amos 3:7 : "Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets."

The ultimate revelation of God is found in the person of Jesus Christ. The New Testament presents Jesus as the embodiment of God's revealed truth. John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." In Christ, the hidden mysteries of God are unveiled, offering salvation and eternal life to all who believe.

The Apostle Paul speaks extensively about the mystery of the Gospel, which was hidden for ages but is now revealed. In Colossians 1:26-27 , he writes, "the mystery that was hidden for ages and generations but is now revealed to His saints. To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory."

The Interplay of Hidden and Revealed

The interplay between the hidden and the revealed is a dynamic aspect of God's relationship with humanity. While some divine truths remain beyond human grasp, God graciously reveals what is necessary for faith and obedience. This balance invites believers to trust in God's wisdom and to seek understanding through His revealed Word.

The Apostle Paul captures this tension in 1 Corinthians 13:12 : "For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." This verse points to the future consummation of God's revelation, when believers will fully comprehend the mysteries of God in His presence.