The claim that there is a secretly embedded code in the Bible discernible by computer calculations has created much interest of late, but knowledge of such a code is not necessary to understand the Bible. While it is true that God inspired the Scriptures in a way that veils their meaning, the key to understanding is God's Spirit—not a codebook, computer or clever mathematician.

The apostle Paul wrote that "the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God... nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Corinthians 2:14). The Spirit of God is a gift to the children of God, not restricted to a few who discover the keys to a hidden code.

Notice also the words of a related prophecy found in Isaiah 29:10-14: "For the Lord has poured out on you the spirit of deep sleep, and has closed your eyes [blocked your understanding]... The whole vision has become to you like the words of a book that is sealed [closed, unable to be understood], which men deliver to one who is literate, saying, 'Read this, please.' And he says, 'I cannot, for it is sealed.' Then the book is delivered to one who is illiterate, saying, 'Read this, please.' And he says, 'I am not literate.'

"Therefore the Lord said: 'Inasmuch as these people draw near with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but have removed their hearts far from Me, and their fear toward Me is taught by the commandment of men, therefore, behold, I will again do a marvelous work among this people, a marvelous work and a wonder; for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hidden.'"

People will be able to understand spiritual truth, not because they discover a secret code by mathematical formula, but rather because God supernaturally opens their minds. God reveals truth to those whom He calls, who show themselves willing to obey Him (Acts 5:32).

We invite you to request a copy of our booklet titled Transforming Your Life: The Process of Conversion, which explains what the Bible says about how a person comes to repentance, receives faith, undergoes baptism, receives the gift of the Spirit of God and understands God's spiritual truths.