“The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.”
Context: Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and contains the final speeches of Moses to the Israelites, just before they enter the Promised Land. In this chapter, Moses is reminding the people of the covenant they made with God at Mount Sinai and the consequences of breaking that covenant.
Acknowledging God’s Sovereignty: The verse begins by emphasizing the Lord’s authority and sovereignty over secret things. It highlights that there are aspects of God’s knowledge and purposes that are beyond human understanding. This recognition of God’s sovereignty should lead us to trust in His wisdom and accept that there are mysteries we may not fully comprehend.
Revealed and Concealed: The verse distinguishes between “secret things” and “those things which are revealed.” God has chosen to reveal certain truths and laws to His people, which they are responsible for obeying. This reveals God’s desire for a relationship with His people and His intention to guide them in righteousness.
Responsibility and Obedience: The revealed things belong to the Israelites and their descendants “forever.” This indicates the enduring nature of God’s covenant and His desire for successive generations to follow His laws and commandments. The purpose of revealing these things is to enable the Israelites to live in obedience to God’s word.
Application to Christians: While the context of this verse specifically addresses the Israelites and the Mosaic Law, there are broader principles that can be applied to Christians today. As believers, we have the privilege of having God’s Word, the Bible, which contains His revealed truths and instructions for righteous living. We are responsible for studying and obeying His Word, passing it on to future generations, and living in accordance with His will.
Humility and Trust: The recognition that there are secret things known only to God should foster humility in our hearts. It reminds us that we have limited knowledge and understanding, but we can trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. Instead of being discouraged by the mysteries of life, we can place our trust in the One who holds all things in His hands.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 29:28 reminds us of the sovereignty of God, the distinction between the secret and revealed things, our responsibility to obey God’s revealed truths, and the importance of trusting in His wisdom. It encourages us to study and apply God’s Word, passing it on to future generations, and humbly accepting that there are aspects of God’s knowledge that are beyond our comprehension.
