Speaking Openly

Jesus said, “I spoke openly to the world. I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where the Jews always meet, and in secret I have said nothing” (John 18:20).

Sometimes I wonder how far this goes. Does this mean we should never speak in secret? Is this limited to teaching?

Sometimes we have circumstances wherein private communication would be easier and more candid than trying to be able to say something in front of everyone.

Sometimes the rules around us don't allow us to say everything we want to say freely. Sometimes there are legitimate ethical ways to avoid violating those rules, but discussing the full details of that could look different or be misinterpreted by others in the vicinity of a conversation. In that case, it's just easier to avoid the conversation altogether.