“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 and Background: The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament, traditionally attributed to Moses. It serves as a recapitulation of the law and covenant God established with the Israelites, just before they entered the Promised Land.
In Deuteronomy 29, Moses renews the covenant between God and the Israelites. He reminds them of God’s faithfulness and warns them about the consequences of disobedience. Verse 29 concludes this chapter by emphasizing the distinction between things that are known and revealed and things that are hidden and belong to God alone.
Key Interpretations:
- Divine Omniscience: The verse acknowledges that there are things that are secret and hidden from human understanding. These “secret things” refer to the mysteries and hidden wisdom known only to God. It recognizes the infinite knowledge and wisdom of God, highlighting His transcendence beyond human comprehension.
- Revealed Truth: While there are secret things, God has chosen to reveal certain truths to His people. The “things which are revealed” pertain to the divine revelation found in God’s Word, the Scriptures. This includes the laws, commandments, and teachings that God has made known to His people.
- Responsibility and Obedience: The verse emphasizes that the revealed truth is meant for humanity. It is intended for the people of Israel and future generations to obey and follow. The purpose of this revelation is not mere intellectual curiosity but practical application. By following God’s revealed will, they would live according to His righteous standards.
Application:
- Humility and Trust: Recognizing the limitations of human understanding, Deuteronomy 29:29 encourages humility and trust in God. It reminds believers that there will always be aspects of God’s plan and wisdom beyond their grasp. Instead of trying to unravel the mysteries, they should trust in God’s sovereignty and acknowledge His infinite wisdom.
- Faithfulness to God’s Word: As God’s revealed truth is made available to us, it is our responsibility to study, understand, and apply it. The verse emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s revealed will, expressed through the words of the law. Believers are called to align their lives with the revealed truth of God’s Word and live in accordance with His commandments.
- Balanced Perspective: Deuteronomy 29:29 teaches us to maintain a balanced perspective. While we strive to understand and follow God’s revealed truth, we should also acknowledge that there are limits to our understanding. It encourages us to avoid speculation or obsessing over the unknown, focusing instead on what God has made known and living accordingly.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us of the boundaries of human knowledge and the significance of God’s revealed truth. It calls us to humility, trust, obedience, and a faithful application of the revealed Word of God in our lives.
