Matthew Henry Commentary Deuteronomy 29:29

Matthew Henry Commentary

Deuteronomy 29:29

1662–1714
Presbyterian
Matthew Henry
Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry Commentary

Deuteronomy 29:29

1662–1714
Presbyterian
SCRIPTURE

"The secret things belong unto Jehovah our God; but the things that are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law." — Deuteronomy 29:29 (ASV)

Moses ends his prophecy of the Jews' rejection, just as Saint Paul ends his discourse on the same subject, when it began to be fulfilled (Romans 11:33). We are forbidden to inquire with excessive curiosity into the secret counsels of God, or to make definitive judgments about them. But we are directed and encouraged to diligently seek what God has made known. He has withheld nothing that is profitable for us, but only that which it is good for us to be ignorant of.

The purpose of all Divine revelation is not to provide material for idle speculation and discussion, but that we may do all the words of this law, and be blessed in our deed. The Bible plainly reveals this; beyond this, a person cannot profitably go. By this light, a person may live and die comfortably, and be happy forever.