What Does the Bible Say About Secrets?

Written By Mary Carter

Mary holds a degree in theology and she has a deep understanding of biblical texts. She works as an elementary school teacher in Alabama.

The Bible presents a nuanced view of secrets. It acknowledges that some things are hidden and known only to God, while also promoting honesty and transparency in human relationships. Secrets linked to sin are discouraged, with an emphasis on confession and truthfulness. Wisdom in handling information and discretion is also valued, recognizing that not everything needs to be disclosed indiscriminately. Ultimately, the Bible advises careful consideration and ethical handling of secrets.

Curious about what the Bible has to say on keeping secrets? This intriguing topic is addressed with wisdom and insight in the Scriptures. Let’s uncover the biblical perspective on secrets.

What Does the Bible Say About Secrets?

The subject of secrets is approached with both practical wisdom and spiritual insight in the Bible. The Scriptures recognize that secrets are a part of human experience and provide guidance on how to handle them.

In the realm of the divine, the Bible acknowledges that there are mysteries and knowledge known only to God. Deuteronomy 29:29 states, “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever.” This verse highlights that some things are beyond human understanding and are in God’s domain.

Regarding interpersonal relationships, the Bible often encourages openness and honesty. Proverbs, for instance, warns against deceit and the troubles that hiding the truth can bring. However, the Bible also recognizes the need for discretion and wise handling of information. Not every truth needs to be disclosed in every situation, and wisdom involves knowing when to speak and when to remain silent.

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The New Testament, particularly the teachings of Jesus, often emphasizes truth and transparency. Secrets associated with sin are particularly discouraged. Jesus taught that what is done in secret will be brought to light, emphasizing the importance of integrity and honesty.

Moreover, the Bible addresses the concept of confession, both to God and to others, as a way of dealing with sinful secrets. Confession is seen as a path to forgiveness and restoration, a way of bringing hidden things into the light for healing and reconciliation.

The handling of secrets in the Bible is not just a matter of personal preference but is deeply connected to the values of honesty, integrity, and wisdom. It’s about discerning what should be kept confidential and what should be disclosed for the sake of truth and righteousness.

In summary, the Bible’s view on secrets is multifaceted. It acknowledges the existence of divine mysteries, the value of discretion, the importance of honesty, and the need for wisdom in dealing with information. Keeping a secret is not condemned per se, but the nature of the secret and the motivation for keeping it are key considerations in line with biblical principles.

Bible Verses About Secrets

  1. Deuteronomy 29:29 – “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever.” This verse acknowledges that some things are known only to God.
  2. Luke 8:17 – “For nothing is secret that will not be made manifest, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light.” Jesus emphasizes that secrets, especially those related to sin, will eventually be revealed.
  3. Proverbs 11:13 – “A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy person keeps a secret.” This highlights the value of discretion and trustworthiness in handling confidential information.
  4. James 5:16 – “Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed.” This verse encourages confession and transparency as a means of healing and restoration.
  5. Proverbs 25:9 – “Argue your case with your neighbor himself, and do not reveal another’s secret.” This advises against revealing secrets that could harm others or damage relationships.
  6. Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another.” This verse encourages honesty in interactions, implying that secrets should not be kept if they involve deceit or falsehood.
  7. Matthew 10:26-27 – “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.” Jesus teaches that truths, especially those related to the kingdom of God, will eventually be revealed, encouraging openness in sharing the Gospel.
  8. Proverbs 20:19 – “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.” This proverb warns against sharing secrets with those who are prone to gossip, emphasizing the need for wise selection of confidants.
  9. Psalm 44:21 – “Would not God discover this? For he knows the secrets of the heart.” This verse acknowledges God’s omniscience, especially in knowing the inner thoughts and secrets of individuals.
  10. Proverbs 17:9 – “Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” This suggests that discretion in keeping certain secrets can be an act of love and can preserve relationships.
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These verses offer a balanced perspective on secrets according to the Bible. While acknowledging God’s ultimate knowledge of all things, they also promote honesty, discretion, and wisdom in handling secrets. The guiding principle is the ethical and loving use of information, whether it is to be kept confidential or shared.