In what ways does John 15:24 connect with Romans 1:20 on God's revelation? The Two Passages at a Glance John 15:24 – “If I had not done among them the works no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. But now they have seen and hated both Me and My Father.” Romans 1:20 – “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities — His eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” One God, Two Avenues of Revelation • General revelation (Romans 1:20): – Creation puts God’s “eternal power and divine nature” on open display. – Accessible to every person in every era. • Special revelation (John 15:24): – Jesus’ unique miracles (“works no one else did”) embody and unveil the Father. – Culminates in the incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3; John 14:9). Shared Themes: Visibility and Accountability • Visibility – Romans: God’s attributes are “clearly seen.” – John: Christ’s works were visibly witnessed. • Accountability – Romans: Humanity is “without excuse.” – John: Those who saw Christ’s works “are guilty of sin.” • Rejection, not ignorance, is the issue. Both texts underscore willful suppression of revealed truth (Romans 1:18; John 3:19-20). Escalating Clarity: From Creation to Christ 1. Creation proclaims God’s existence and power (Psalm 19:1-4). 2. Conscience confirms His moral law (Romans 2:14-16). 3. Christ embodies God’s full character (Colossians 1:15-20). The more vivid the revelation, the greater the responsibility. Rejecting the written signature in nature is serious; rejecting the living Word is graver still (Matthew 11:20-24). Why Their Connection Matters Today • No one can plead ignorance; God has spoken in both the world He made and the Son He sent. • Evangelism rests on the confidence that hearts already encounter God’s truth daily (Acts 17:24-27). • Personal discipleship grows as we marvel at creation and anchor faith in Christ’s finished work (Psalm 8; John 20:30-31). Takeaway Creation leaves us without excuse; Christ leaves us without doubt. Honor both revelations by letting the grandeur of the heavens drive you to the grace of the cross. |
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