The concept of preparation for revelation is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where God prepares individuals and communities to receive His divine truth and guidance. This preparation is both spiritual and practical, involving a readiness of heart, mind, and spirit to understand and respond to God's communication.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, preparation for revelation often involved purification and consecration. For instance, before God revealed the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai, the Israelites were instructed to consecrate themselves. Exodus 19:10-11 states, "Then the LORD said to Moses, 'Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. Have them wash their clothes and be ready by the third day, because on that day the LORD will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.'"

Prophets also played a crucial role in preparing the people for revelation. Isaiah, for example, called the people to repentance and readiness to receive God's word. Isaiah 40:3 declares, "A voice of one calling: 'Prepare the way for the LORD in the wilderness; make a straight highway for our God in the desert.'"

New Testament Insights

In the New Testament, John the Baptist epitomizes the role of preparation for revelation. His ministry was to prepare the way for Jesus Christ, the ultimate revelation of God. Matthew 3:1-3 records, "In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea and saying, 'Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near.' This is he who was spoken of through the prophet Isaiah: 'A voice of one calling in the wilderness, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for Him."'"

Jesus Himself prepared His disciples for the revelation of the Holy Spirit. In John 14:26 , He promises, "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have told you."

Spiritual Preparation

Spiritual preparation involves cultivating a heart that is receptive to God's word. This includes prayer, meditation on Scripture, and a lifestyle of holiness. James 1:21 advises, "Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly receive the word planted in you, which can save your souls."

The Apostle Paul emphasizes the importance of spiritual readiness in Ephesians 6:13-17 , where he describes the armor of God. This passage underscores the necessity of being spiritually equipped to discern and act upon divine revelation.

Practical Preparation

Practical preparation for revelation involves creating an environment conducive to hearing from God. This can include setting aside time for solitude and reflection, as Jesus often did. Mark 1:35 notes, "Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up and slipped out to a solitary place to pray."

The early church also exemplified practical preparation through communal worship and study of the Scriptures. Acts 2:42 describes the early believers: "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

Conclusion

Preparation for revelation is a multifaceted process that involves both spiritual and practical elements. It is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, highlighting the importance of readiness to receive and respond to God's communication.