The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law. (Deuteronomy 29:29)

The traditional understanding of this verse is that there are certain issues and truths that God keeps to Himself and those He has revealed to mankind in order that we might know Him. In short, we are on a “need to know basis” and there are some things that we don’t need to know. In this existence, there are just some things about the Almighty that we will never understand because it isn’t necessary at the present time. On the other hand, we must strive to embrace the truth in what He has revealed to us. That being said, as it is with so many other verses, other interpretations for this verse are worth mentioning.

Considering that the context of this verse is the consequence of disobedience, some commentators suggest this teaches that hidden sins (“secret things”) are for God to deal with. In other words, if the people at large are unaware of someone’s sins, they are not necessarily accountable for that person’s sins — only the person who commits that sin is responsible. However, if sins are revealed to the congregation, the entire assembly has a responsibility to address it with an eye on teaching future generations the importance of obedience. In short, we are our brother’s keeper.

It is a fact that the sins of a few can affect many, and so, it only makes sense that it is in the best interests of the many to promote righteousness and justice — that is to say, to do what is right and, when need be, bring correction to those who have done wrong. The objective, of course, is that the entire body might thrive, prosper and live in peace. When it comes to sin, we should always keep in mind that secret sins don’t stay secret — God has a way of bringing them into the light. With that in mind, let us all search our hearts and make certain that unlawful things done in secret have been addressed, overcome and forgiven. Let us give those things to God that His righteousness might be revealed in us.

Blessings and Shalom,  

Bill 

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