What are General and Special Revelation?

Definition of Revelation

Revelation refers to the ways God makes Himself known. This includes both the broad evidence of His existence and nature, as well as the more specific, direct communications of His will and redemptive plan. The concept of revelation underscores that humanity does not discover God solely by human effort; rather, God graciously discloses Himself so that people can know Him.

General Revelation Explained

General Revelation refers to knowledge about God that is available to everyone through the created world, human conscience, and history. It encompasses all the ways God’s power, wisdom, and moral law are revealed to every individual, regardless of culture, time, or place.

Scriptural Support for General Revelation

One of the most direct accounts appears in Romans, which states, “For what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from His workmanship...” (Romans 1:19–20). Paul writes here that the natural world testifies to God’s undeniable power and character, so that anyone willing to observe creation can perceive that a Creator must exist.

The psalmists also testify to this concept: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands” (Psalm 19:1). Such a poetic expression highlights how creation itself is an ever-present and universal “voice,” pointing beyond itself to a transcendent Creator.

Evidence from Creation

Throughout history, countless philosophers, scientists, and explorers have marveled at the complexity and order of the universe. This overwhelming design suggests an intelligent cause. The intricate arrangement of the DNA molecule, fine-tuning in physics that allows for life, and archaeological evidence of human civilizations acknowledging a higher power from their earliest records all serve as indications of a divine hand in creation.

Human Conscience and General Revelation

Another dimension of general revelation is the moral sensibility in the human conscience, whereby people intuitively sense right and wrong. Romans 2:14–15 suggests that even those without direct religious instruction have the law “written on their hearts,” indicating an internal witness to moral truth.

Limitations of General Revelation

While general revelation conveys God’s existence and attributes to all, it does not exhaustively unveil the fullness of His plan for humanity. Observing nature or feeling that “something larger” exists does not answer specific questions about salvation, grace, or the historical events crucial to faith. Thus, general revelation alone is not sufficient for a complete understanding of the gospel.

Special Revelation Defined

Special Revelation refers to God’s direct communication of truth to individuals, groups, or humanity as a whole. This category encompasses the Scriptures, the prophets, dreams and visions recorded in biblical events, and supremely, the person of Jesus Christ.

Scriptural Basis for Special Revelation

Throughout Scripture, God discloses specific information about His nature, purposes, and plan for redemption in a manner that surpasses what can be gleaned solely from nature. Second Timothy 3:16–17 states, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” The authoritative nature of the Bible sets it apart as a direct revelation from God, containing teachings, commands, prophecy, and historical narrative that reveal His will.

In 2 Peter 1:21, the apostle explains that “no prophecy was ever brought about through human initiative, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” This underscores the divine origin of the Scriptures and clarifies that these messages did not originate in human intention but in God’s intentional disclosure to humanity.

The Incarnation and Its Centrality

Special revelation culminates in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh (John 1:14). God’s eternal Son took on human nature, lived on earth, taught about God’s kingdom, died for sin, and rose again. These historical events are crucial because they provide the means of salvation—something that nature alone cannot convey.

The New Testament authors emphasize that Christ’s resurrection is verifiable both historically and spiritually. Multiple firsthand witnesses, such as those recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:3–8, testify to encountering the risen Lord. This extraordinary event affirms not only Christ’s identity but also the divine power behind His claims.

Examples from Biblical History

• Old Testament Prophets: In numerous passages, God communicates His will to nations through chosen prophets (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah). These messages included warnings, calls to repentance, and promises about the Messiah.

• Jesus’ earthly ministry: In the Gospels, Jesus speaks with unparalleled authority, performs miraculous signs, and fulfills Old Testament prophecies.

• Apostolic Teaching in the New Testament: The apostles, directly taught by Christ and guided by the Holy Spirit, wrote letters and accounts that form the basis of Christian doctrine.

Convergence of General and Special Revelation

While general revelation points to a divine Creator, special revelation clarifies specific truths of God’s nature, His holiness, the necessity of reconciliation with Him, and the way to eternal life. Both streams of revelation testify to the same God. Creation lays the groundwork for acknowledging His existence; Scripture and the person of Jesus provide the knowledge of His character, commands, and plan of salvation.

Practical Implications

1. Worship and Awe: Recognizing the wonder of creation enhances worship. Observing the intricacy of biology, the majesty of mountains, or the vastness of space inspires a response of reverence toward God.

2. Personal Relationship: Special revelation invites people into a personal relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. It answers the deeper questions of human existence that general revelation alone cannot.

3. Moral Foundation: General revelation offers a universal sense of moral accountability, while the Scripture clarifies God’s law and standard, helping individuals see their need for forgiveness and transformation.

Conclusion

General revelation and special revelation are both vital expressions of how God makes Himself known. From nature’s testimony to the precise records contained in Scripture, these revelations unite to proclaim God’s reality, character, and redemptive plan. Their comprehensive harmony ensures that no sincere seeker is left without a witness that points to the Creator and His offer of salvation.