Mark Chapter 4 · Verse 22
For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
Original Language Analysis
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 17
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ἐστιν
there is
G2076
ἐστιν
there is
Strong's:
G2076
Word #:
3 of 17
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
ὁ
which
G3739
ὁ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
6 of 17
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐὰν
G1437
ἐὰν
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
7 of 17
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
8 of 17
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
φανερωθῇ
be manifested
G5319
φανερωθῇ
be manifested
Strong's:
G5319
Word #:
9 of 17
to render apparent (literally or figuratively)
ἐγένετο
any thing kept
G1096
ἐγένετο
any thing kept
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
11 of 17
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
13 of 17
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
εἰς
abroad
G1519
εἰς
abroad
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
15 of 17
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Cross References
Luke 8:17For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.Ecclesiastes 12:14For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.Acts 4:20For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.Acts 20:27For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.1 Corinthians 4:5Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
Historical Context
This principle echoes throughout Scripture: God sees in secret and will reward openly (Matthew 6:4, 6, 18); nothing is covered that won't be revealed (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2); all will be manifest in judgment (Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Hebrews 4:13). Jesus spoke this in context of parable teaching—mysteries veiled now will be unveiled. Early church trusted that persecuted truth would eventually triumph. Church history vindicates this: heresies eventually exposed, gospel truth prevails despite opposition, final judgment will reveal all secrets.
Questions for Reflection
- How does knowing all secrets will be revealed affect your private thoughts and actions?
- What hidden truths about Christ do you need to bring into the light through witness?
- How does this principle encourage faithfulness when truth is currently rejected or opposed?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus declares universal principle: 'For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.' All hidden things will eventually be revealed. This applies multiple ways:
The double negative 'nothing...not' (οὐ...οὐ) emphasizes absoluteness. The purpose clause 'but that it should come abroad' (ἀλλ' ἵνα...ἔλθῃ εἰς φανερόν) indicates God intends revelation, not permanent concealment. Parables temporarily veil truth from hard hearts, but ultimate purpose is revelation.