Topical Encyclopedia The term "The Secret Meeting" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, it can refer to several instances where clandestine gatherings or private discussions occur within the biblical narrative. These meetings often involve significant decisions, divine revelations, or pivotal moments in the unfolding of God's plan.1. Nicodemus and Jesus (John 3:1-21): One of the most notable secret meetings in the New Testament is between Nicodemus, a Pharisee and member of the Jewish ruling council, and Jesus. Nicodemus visits Jesus at night, seeking understanding of His teachings. This meeting is significant for the theological discourse on being "born again" and the revelation of God's love for the world. Jesus tells Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). This encounter highlights the necessity of spiritual rebirth and introduces the foundational Christian doctrine of salvation through faith in Christ. 2. The Sanhedrin's Plot Against Jesus (Matthew 26:3-5; Mark 14:1-2; Luke 22:1-2): The chief priests and elders of the people convene secretly to plot the arrest and execution of Jesus. This clandestine meeting occurs in the palace of the high priest, Caiaphas. Their fear of public uproar leads them to seek a discreet way to arrest Jesus, ultimately resulting in Judas Iscariot's betrayal. "Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the courtyard of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, and they conspired to arrest Jesus covertly and kill Him" (Matthew 26:3-4). 3. The Council at Jerusalem (Acts 15:1-29): While not entirely secret, the Council at Jerusalem involves private discussions among the apostles and elders regarding the inclusion of Gentile believers in the early Church. The meeting addresses the contentious issue of whether Gentile converts must adhere to Jewish law, particularly circumcision. The decision reached, guided by the Holy Spirit, affirms that salvation is through grace and not by the law, thus shaping the future of the Christian mission. "After much discussion, Peter got up and said to them... 'We believe it is through the grace of the Lord Jesus that we are saved, just as they are'" (Acts 15:7, 11). 4. Paul's Escape from Damascus (Acts 9:23-25): Following his conversion, Paul faces a plot against his life by the Jews in Damascus. The disciples, aware of the danger, arrange a secretive escape for Paul by lowering him in a basket through an opening in the city wall. This covert operation underscores the early Church's protective measures for its leaders and the persistent opposition faced by the apostles. "But his disciples took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall" (Acts 9:25). 5. The Meeting of David and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20): David and Jonathan, the son of King Saul, hold a secret meeting to discuss Saul's intentions toward David. Jonathan devises a plan to communicate Saul's disposition, ultimately confirming the king's intent to kill David. This meeting solidifies the covenant between David and Jonathan, showcasing their loyalty and the providential protection over David's life. "Jonathan said to David, 'Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the LORD, saying, "The LORD is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever"'" (1 Samuel 20:42). These secret meetings, whether for protection, revelation, or decision-making, play crucial roles in the biblical narrative, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the unfolding of His divine purposes through both open and hidden means. |