Verse
Context
Spiritual Wisdom
9Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 10But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.11For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But God hath revealed them unto us - A manifest proof that the apostle speaks here of the glories of the Gospel, and not of the glories of the future world. For the Spirit searcheth all things - This is the Spirit of God, which spoke by the prophets, and has now given to the apostles the fullness of that heavenly truth, of which He gave to the former only the outlines. Yea, the deep things of God - It is only the Spirit of God which can reveal the counsels of God: these are the purposes which have existed in His infinite wisdom and goodness from eternity; and particularly what refers to creation, providence, redemption, and eternal glory, as far as men and angels are concerned in these purposes. The apostles were so fully convinced that the scheme of redemption proclaimed by the Gospel was Divine, that they boldly asserted that these things infinitely surpassed the wisdom and comprehension of man. God was now in a certain way become manifest; many attributes of his, which to the heathen world would have for ever lain in obscurity, (for the world by wisdom knew not God), were now not only brought to light as existing in him, but illustrated by the gracious displays which He had made of himself. It was the Spirit of God alone that could reveal these things; and it was the energy of that Spirit alone that could bring them all into effect - stamp and seal them as attributes and works of God for ever. The apostles were as truly conscious of their own inspiration as they were that they had consciousness at all; and what they spoke, they spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
revealed . . . by . . . Spirit--The inspiration of thoughts (so far as truth essential to salvation is concerned) makes the Christian (Co1 3:16; Co1 12:3; Mat 16:17; Joh 16:13; Jo1 2:20, Jo1 2:27); that of words, the PROPHET (Sa2 23:1-2; Kg1 13:1, Kg1 13:5), "by the word of the Lord" (Co1 2:13; Joh 20:30-31; Pe2 1:21). The secrets of revelation are secret to some, not because those who know them will not reveal them (for indeed, the very notion of revelation implies an unveiling of what had been veiled), but because those to whom they are announced have not the will or power to comprehend them. Hence the Spirit-taught alone know these secrets (Psa 25:14; Pro 3:32; Joh 7:17; Joh 15:15). unto us--the "perfect" or fully matured in Christian experience (Co1 2:6). Intelligent men may understand the outline of doctrines; but without the Holy Spirit's revelation to the heart, these will be to them a mere outline--a skeleton, correct perhaps, but wanting life [WHATLEY, Cautions for the Times, 14], (Luk 10:21). the Spirit searcheth--working in us and with our spirits (compare Rom 8:16, Rom 8:26-27). The Old Testament shows us God (the Father) for us. The Gospels, God (the Son) with us. The Acts and Epistles, God (the Holy Ghost) in us [MONOD], (Gal 3:14). deep things of God-- (Psa 92:5). His divine nature, attributes, and counsels. The Spirit delights to explore the infinite depths of His own divine mind, and then reveal them to us, according as we are capable of understanding them (Deu 29:29). This proves the personality and Godhead of the Holy Ghost. Godhead cannot be separated from the Spirit of God, as manhood cannot be separated from the Spirit of man [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what man knoweth the things of a man,.... The thoughts of a man's heart, the conceptions of his mind, the schemes he is drawing there, his designs, purposes, and intentions; these can never be known by another man, no, nor by angels or devils; not by any creature; by none save the spirit of a man which is in him? which is only conscious to, and can only make known the things that are in him: even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God; and which, as it proves how secret, hidden, unknown, the mysteries of grace are, until revealed by the Spirit; so it gives full evidence to the deity of the Holy Ghost, and clearly shows he must be God, who is in him, knows the thoughts of his heart, the counsels of his mind, his purposes and decrees, and what is contained in them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:10-12 it was to us: Those who believe in Christ and have thus received his Spirit (see 6:19; 12:13; Gal 3:2; Eph 1:13; Titus 3:5) are contrasted with the rulers of this world (1 Cor 2:8). God’s deep secrets are not understood through secular wisdom or philosophy, but through God’s own Spirit, who alone can reveal God’s thoughts to his people (see 1 Jn 2:20, 27; cp. Matt 11:25-27). God has graciously given his Spirit to his people so they can know the wonderful things God has freely given them (cp. John 16:13-14).
Spiritual Wisdom
9Rather, as it is written: “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart has imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.” 10But God has revealed it to us by the Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God.11For who among men knows the thoughts of man except his own spirit within him? So too, no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
An Hour With Kathryn Kuhlman - Part 1
By Kathryn Kuhlman18K27:51InterviewMAT 6:33JHN 3:3ACT 2:17ROM 8:141CO 2:10GAL 5:22EPH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of their upbringing in a small Methodist church and the tragic loss of their father at a young age. They emphasize the importance of being born again and the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their life. The speaker then transitions to introducing Catherine Cooleman, a woman who exemplifies the virtues and compassion of Jesus Christ. They describe her as a handmaiden of God and share how her story has impacted and inspired many to believe in miracles.
The Importance of Having the Peace of Christ
By David Wilkerson3.9K51:43PSA 34:1MAT 14:27JHN 14:17JHN 14:26ACT 17:111CO 2:10GAL 2:20In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of maintaining a passionate love for Christ. He expresses concern for those who have drifted away from their initial fervor and invites them to come forward for prayer. The speaker emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit in teaching and guiding believers. He also highlights the need to trust in God's faithfulness and to praise Him in times of trouble. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not be afraid, but to have faith and give thanks to the Lord.
He Is a Jealous Lover
By A.W. Tozer3.8K51:21Jealousy Of GodEXO 33:18MAT 5:48ACT 2:41CO 2:101CO 3:19PHP 3:15COL 1:27In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being perfect and thinking in alignment with God's word. He mentions that those who reason differently will face consequences from God. The preacher also introduces the concept of three models: being forward and backward, doing God's will alone, and being a jealous lover of God. He talks about the need for a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit and a return to New Testament Christianity. The sermon concludes with a reminder that true worship and service to God do not require fancy equipment or gadgets, but rather a sincere heart and a willingness to pray.
The Superlative Excellence of the Holy Spirit
By C.H. Spurgeon2.2K49:24ISA 11:2MAT 24:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:7ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the anticipation and hope that Christians have for the return of Jesus Christ. The congregation is encouraged to eagerly await His appearance and to be ready for His coming. The preacher highlights the power of the Holy Spirit in converting hearts and emphasizes the need for the Spirit to be poured out on the church. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the church to be filled with men who are filled with the Holy Spirit and fire.
Receive a New Heart, Mind, and Nature
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.9K26:40New HeartPSA 27:1JHN 1:14ROM 3:101CO 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of receiving the word of God and allowing it to transform our lives. He encourages the audience to turn away from worldly idols and instead turn to the living and true God. The preacher highlights the power of God's word, stating that it not only brings assurance but also has the ability to heal and sanctify. He also discusses the contrast between the world's false promises of joy and the true joy found in following God's truth. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the future transformation that awaits believers, as their bodies will be fashioned like Christ's glorified body.
The Cross and the Ministry of the Unveiled Face
By T. Austin-Sparks1.6K1:06:59The CrossROM 6:61CO 1:181CO 2:101CO 2:13COL 3:162TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of the ministry of Christ in the world. He highlights that as believers, we are vessels through which Christ ministers to the spiritual needs of others. The speaker encourages the audience to read the letter to the Galatians and reflect on the distinction between the ministry of Christ and our own efforts. He concludes by acknowledging our weaknesses as human vessels but reminds us that we carry the treasure of Christ within us.
The Earnest of Heaven
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K42:12MAT 6:33LUK 15:6ACT 9:111CO 2:102CO 2:14REV 7:14REV 21:27The sermon transcript discusses the joy in heaven when a lost sheep is found and when sinners repent. It emphasizes the joy and celebration among the angels and saints in heaven when someone turns to God. The sermon also mentions the importance of studying the Bible and seeking God's message in the text. It concludes by highlighting the eternal joy and service of the people of God in heaven, never growing weary or hoarse with music.
Your Breakthrough
By Kayy Gordon1.5K10:071CO 2:10This sermon emphasizes the joy and fulfillment found in investing in God's Kingdom, highlighting the journey of a missionary who experienced God's faithfulness and breakthroughs in various missions. It encourages believers to seek the anointing of the Holy Spirit, to be open to God's revelations, and to actively participate in God's work to be part of the overcoming church of Jesus Christ in the last days.
Testimony
By Duncan Campbell1.4K51:50TestimonyJOB 33:14PSA 34:11ISA 35:10MAT 16:24LUK 9:621CO 2:10JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker shares three significant experiences from their life story. The first experience was when they were saved by God during an open-air meeting. Although they didn't immediately find peace, they felt a strong calling to share the message of God. The second experience involved a moment of doubt and questioning their ministry, but they ultimately decided to obey God's call and serve as a missionary. The third experience involved a conversation with their daughter, who expressed a desire to talk with them. The speaker eagerly agreed to have a conversation with their daughter.
K-528 Tv Show Part 12 Joseph & Revelation
By Art Katz75826:05InterviewGEN 39:1GEN 39:71SA 2:71CO 2:11CO 2:10JAS 4:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine relationship with God through the Holy Spirit. He challenges the audience to examine whether they truly have the Spirit of God dwelling within them. The speaker also discusses the cost of following God's revelations and how it may require sacrificing worldly achievements and prestige. He shares his personal journey of learning to trust God's word and growing in faith. The sermon highlights the need to surrender our minds and academic interpretations to fully experience God's power and wisdom.
Golden Bowls of Prayer
By G.W. North4261:03:40PrayerMAT 6:33ROM 6:4ROM 8:1ROM 8:321CO 2:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of constantly seeking newness of life in our spiritual journey. He encourages the congregation to let go of old knowledge and be open to learning afresh every time they come to God. The preacher also highlights the need for a heart that allows God to work and a soul that does not accuse or put God on the spot. He reminds the listeners of God's love and the assurance that He will freely give us all things. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the power of intercession and the importance of speaking fewer words and relying on the insistence of the Holy Spirit.
The End-Time Church Fully Engaged With the Holy Spirit
By Mike Bickle2455:32End-Time ChurchBridal IdentityPSA 40:5PSA 92:5ISA 62:5MAT 9:381CO 2:10EPH 3:18REV 22:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the end-time church, highlighting the church's need to embrace its bridal identity and engage in intercession. He explains that the Spirit and the Bride will cry out for Jesus to come, reflecting a deep unity and urgency for His return. Bickle outlines a fourfold revelation of Jesus that awakens the church to its mission and identity, urging believers to align with the Spirit's intercessory work. He asserts that this prophetic call is crucial for the church to experience a powerful breakthrough and victory in the midst of spiritual conflict. Ultimately, the message is about cultivating an active intimacy with Jesus as the Bridegroom, leading to a transformative relationship with God.
The Way to God
By Madame Guyon5PSA 40:8PSA 139:23JHN 10:10ROM 7:151CO 2:10GAL 2:20EPH 3:19COL 3:3HEB 4:12Madame Guyon preaches about the journey of the Soul towards God through different degrees of transformation and union. The first degree involves the return of the Soul to God through true conversion. The second degree focuses on the effectual touch in the will, leading to recollection and the pursuit of God within. The third degree emphasizes passivity and interior sacrifice, where the Soul experiences alternations of dryness and facility. The fourth degree signifies naked faith, where the Soul undergoes desolation and total surrender to God. The fifth degree culminates in mystical death, where the Soul unites with God but awaits recognition. The sermon concludes with the transformation of the Soul in God, leading to immense expansion and a profound union with the divine will.
Awake, Thou That Sleepest
By Charles Wesley4PSA 92:5MAT 13:5ROM 8:39ROM 11:331CO 2:10EPH 3:18The preacher delves into the concept of 'bathos,' meaning depth, as both a literal and figurative term to describe the immeasurable qualities of God, His wisdom, and His unfathomable ways. Bathos is contrasted with the limited knowledge of created beings like Satan, emphasizing the vast difference between human understanding and divine wisdom. The sermon explores how God's thoughts and works are incredibly deep, beyond human comprehension, and how nothing, not even the depths of the sea or the heights of heaven, can separate us from His love.
One Thing Have I Desired of the Lord
By Joshua Daniel3PSA 16:11PSA 27:4MAT 26:6LUK 10:42JHN 14:211CO 2:10PHP 3:101TH 4:31JN 2:15Joshua Daniel preaches on the desire of King David to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and seek His guidance. He emphasizes the importance of choosing Jesus Christ, spending time in prayer, seeking answers from God, and desiring to live for God alone. The sermon highlights the examples of King David, St. Paul, and Mary who chose to learn of Christ, live for Him, and glorify Him, becoming blessings for many generations.
Guidelines: Part 3 What Do You Mean by Revelation? Inspiration? Illumination? Interpretation?
By J. Vernon McGee1JOS 1:2PSA 119:105PRO 3:5LUK 24:45JHN 1:11CO 2:101CO 2:132TI 3:16HEB 1:12PE 1:21J. Vernon McGee delves into the meanings of Revelation, Inspiration, Illumination, and Interpretation in the Bible. Revelation emphasizes God's communication to humanity through the prophets in the Old Testament and through Christ in the New Testament. Inspiration highlights the belief in the plenary verbal inspiration of Scripture, where every word is considered the Word of God. Illumination stresses the necessity of the Holy Spirit to teach and help believers understand the spiritual truths in the Bible. Interpretation involves the various interpretations individuals give to the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of considering the overall purpose, audience, context, original language, and literal interpretation of Scripture.
Birth: Savior; Growth: Spirit
By Miles J. Stanford1JHN 14:26ROM 8:5ROM 8:141CO 2:102CO 5:7GAL 5:16GAL 5:25EPH 1:13HEB 11:1JAS 2:26Miles J. Stanford preaches on the importance of walking in the Spirit to overcome the desires of the flesh. He emphasizes that while faith clears us before God through the Cross, the growth ministry of the Holy Spirit is needed to clear us from ourselves. By realizing our position in the Father's presence through faith, we are drawn closer to Him without depending on our senses. Faith allows us to claim our abundant title to be near and happy with God, even when our natural conscience may suggest otherwise. The preacher highlights that walking by sight takes us outside of faith, and God desires us to continually rely on faith for every moment, as it is the evidence of things unseen.
Jane Lead's Journal Entries: 1670-1675
By Jane Lead1PRO 2:6PRO 3:13PRO 8:11PRO 16:16MAT 7:141CO 2:101CO 3:16JAS 3:17Jane Lead preaches about the journey of seeking divine wisdom and revelations, symbolized by passing through three gates of difficulty and progression, leading to a place of infinite blessings and wonders. She emphasizes the importance of embodying virtues like humility, meekness, and purity to attract spiritual growth and transformation. The sermon delves into the mystical journey of becoming a 'magician' in theosophical wisdom, where the inner and outer worlds align to manifest divine miracles and treasures. Jane Lead highlights the significance of transmutation, purification, and spiritual alchemy in the process of attaining divine knowledge and enlightenment.
Truth
By John Follette0PSA 119:160PRO 3:5ISA 55:11JHN 8:32JHN 16:131CO 2:10EPH 4:15COL 3:162TI 3:16HEB 4:12John Follette emphasizes the profound impact of Truth in our lives, highlighting the dual nature of Truth's reaction within us - both pleasing and devastating, leading to slaying and resurrection. He stresses the importance of embracing Truth, understanding its subjective and objective aspects, and allowing it to be personalized in our hearts through the Holy Spirit. Follette discusses the continuous growth and revelation of Truth, the necessity of balance and equipoise in understanding it, and the transformative power of Truth over a lifetime.
Exposition on Psalm 53
By St. Augustine0GEN 25:23MAT 10:39ACT 9:41CO 2:10GAL 4:19COL 1:24St. Augustine delves into Psalm 52, exploring the themes of acknowledging God's presence in times of pain and travail, the folly of denying God's existence, and the consequences of living in wickedness. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God and understanding His justice, especially in the face of corruption and evil beliefs. Augustine also reflects on Christ's crucifixion and the fear-driven actions of those who denied His divinity, highlighting the contrast between pleasing men and pleasing God.
February 20. 1678. the Sacred Fire. a Vision.
By Jane Lead0PSA 27:14PRO 25:2ISA 40:31HAB 2:31CO 2:10Jane Lead reflects on a vision she had of a pure azure blue circle rising into a white transparent flame that grew stronger with sprinkles upon it. Despite not fully understanding the significance of the vision at that moment, she contemplates on the spiritual message it holds and the eternal mysteries it unveils, emphasizing the importance of seeking deeper revelations from the Spirit. Through her experience, she encourages her listeners to be open to divine encounters and to patiently wait for God's timing in revealing the hidden truths and purposes He has for each individual.
The Good Spirit of the Lord (Neh. Ix: 20)
By Seth Rees0NEH 9:20ZEC 4:6JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 2:10GAL 5:22EPH 5:181TH 5:192TI 1:7Seth Rees preaches about the importance of having the Holy Spirit in our lives, emphasizing that all victories and achievements in the lives of great men of the past were due to God's 'good Spirit' instructing and empowering them. He highlights the examples of Joseph, Moses, and Joshua, showing how their triumphs were a result of the Spirit of the Lord working through them. Rees urges believers to embrace the Holy Spirit in every aspect of their lives, trusting in His guidance, wisdom, and power to lead them to victory and overcome challenges.
The Pentecostal Life
By Samuel Chadwick0JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ACT 2:3ACT 19:2ROM 8:1ROM 8:16ROM 8:261CO 2:10REV 12:11Samuel Chadwick preaches on the profound experience of being the temple of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the need for a reverential awe and a deep realization of God's indwelling presence. He shares his personal encounter with the Holy Spirit, highlighting the immediate results of peace, joy, and empowerment that came with the Pentecost experience. Chadwick explains the distinction between the baptism of the Holy Spirit and regeneration, stressing the importance of seeking the fullness of the Spirit for power, service, and effective witnessing. He delves into the certainty of revelation, the vitality in prayer, and the transformative power that comes with being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Relationship With the Most High God
By Mary Wilder Tileston0JOB 32:8LUK 11:13JHN 4:241CO 2:10EPH 3:20Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the profound impact of personal communion with God through prayer, highlighting the boundless power that comes from being in union with the Almighty. She reflects on the influence and sympathy that humans can have on each other's spirits, pointing out that God, being a Spirit, can infinitely aid and uplift His children through intimate interaction. Tileston challenges the notion that God's presence is inaccessible, asserting that through prayer, we enter into a transformative fellowship with the Creator, enabling us to tap into limitless possibilities.
The Field of Clover
By H. P. Barker0JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:161CO 2:102CO 1:222CO 5:5GAL 5:22EPH 1:13EPH 4:30H. P. Barker preaches about the significance of the Holy Spirit as the 'earnest' given to believers, providing comfort, assurance, and a foretaste of our heavenly inheritance. Using the analogy of a telescope given to a boy on a voyage, the Holy Spirit grants believers a clearer spiritual vision of the eternal promises awaiting them. Just as a farmer prepares a field of clover for his sheep, the Holy Spirit prepares believers for their heavenly home by allowing them to experience glimpses of their future inheritance now.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But God hath revealed them unto us - A manifest proof that the apostle speaks here of the glories of the Gospel, and not of the glories of the future world. For the Spirit searcheth all things - This is the Spirit of God, which spoke by the prophets, and has now given to the apostles the fullness of that heavenly truth, of which He gave to the former only the outlines. Yea, the deep things of God - It is only the Spirit of God which can reveal the counsels of God: these are the purposes which have existed in His infinite wisdom and goodness from eternity; and particularly what refers to creation, providence, redemption, and eternal glory, as far as men and angels are concerned in these purposes. The apostles were so fully convinced that the scheme of redemption proclaimed by the Gospel was Divine, that they boldly asserted that these things infinitely surpassed the wisdom and comprehension of man. God was now in a certain way become manifest; many attributes of his, which to the heathen world would have for ever lain in obscurity, (for the world by wisdom knew not God), were now not only brought to light as existing in him, but illustrated by the gracious displays which He had made of himself. It was the Spirit of God alone that could reveal these things; and it was the energy of that Spirit alone that could bring them all into effect - stamp and seal them as attributes and works of God for ever. The apostles were as truly conscious of their own inspiration as they were that they had consciousness at all; and what they spoke, they spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
revealed . . . by . . . Spirit--The inspiration of thoughts (so far as truth essential to salvation is concerned) makes the Christian (Co1 3:16; Co1 12:3; Mat 16:17; Joh 16:13; Jo1 2:20, Jo1 2:27); that of words, the PROPHET (Sa2 23:1-2; Kg1 13:1, Kg1 13:5), "by the word of the Lord" (Co1 2:13; Joh 20:30-31; Pe2 1:21). The secrets of revelation are secret to some, not because those who know them will not reveal them (for indeed, the very notion of revelation implies an unveiling of what had been veiled), but because those to whom they are announced have not the will or power to comprehend them. Hence the Spirit-taught alone know these secrets (Psa 25:14; Pro 3:32; Joh 7:17; Joh 15:15). unto us--the "perfect" or fully matured in Christian experience (Co1 2:6). Intelligent men may understand the outline of doctrines; but without the Holy Spirit's revelation to the heart, these will be to them a mere outline--a skeleton, correct perhaps, but wanting life [WHATLEY, Cautions for the Times, 14], (Luk 10:21). the Spirit searcheth--working in us and with our spirits (compare Rom 8:16, Rom 8:26-27). The Old Testament shows us God (the Father) for us. The Gospels, God (the Son) with us. The Acts and Epistles, God (the Holy Ghost) in us [MONOD], (Gal 3:14). deep things of God-- (Psa 92:5). His divine nature, attributes, and counsels. The Spirit delights to explore the infinite depths of His own divine mind, and then reveal them to us, according as we are capable of understanding them (Deu 29:29). This proves the personality and Godhead of the Holy Ghost. Godhead cannot be separated from the Spirit of God, as manhood cannot be separated from the Spirit of man [BENGEL].
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what man knoweth the things of a man,.... The thoughts of a man's heart, the conceptions of his mind, the schemes he is drawing there, his designs, purposes, and intentions; these can never be known by another man, no, nor by angels or devils; not by any creature; by none save the spirit of a man which is in him? which is only conscious to, and can only make known the things that are in him: even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God; and which, as it proves how secret, hidden, unknown, the mysteries of grace are, until revealed by the Spirit; so it gives full evidence to the deity of the Holy Ghost, and clearly shows he must be God, who is in him, knows the thoughts of his heart, the counsels of his mind, his purposes and decrees, and what is contained in them.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:10-12 it was to us: Those who believe in Christ and have thus received his Spirit (see 6:19; 12:13; Gal 3:2; Eph 1:13; Titus 3:5) are contrasted with the rulers of this world (1 Cor 2:8). God’s deep secrets are not understood through secular wisdom or philosophy, but through God’s own Spirit, who alone can reveal God’s thoughts to his people (see 1 Jn 2:20, 27; cp. Matt 11:25-27). God has graciously given his Spirit to his people so they can know the wonderful things God has freely given them (cp. John 16:13-14).