Introduction

True revelation is a foundational concept in Christian theology, serving as the means by which God discloses Himself, His will, and His purposes to humanity. It is through revelation that believers come to understand the nature of God, the path to salvation, and the principles for living a life that is pleasing to Him. The Bible, regarded as the ultimate source of divine revelation, is central to this understanding.

Biblical Basis for Revelation

The Bible consistently affirms the importance of true revelation. In the Old Testament, God reveals Himself through various means, including direct communication, dreams, visions, and the Law. For instance, God spoke to Moses face to face, as recorded in Exodus 33:11: "The LORD would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend." This direct revelation was crucial for guiding the Israelites and establishing the covenant relationship.

In the New Testament, the ultimate revelation of God is found in Jesus Christ. Hebrews 1:1-2 states, "On many past occasions and in many different ways, God spoke to our fathers through the prophets. But in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, whom He appointed heir of all things, and through whom He made the universe." Jesus embodies the fullness of God's revelation, providing a complete and perfect understanding of God's nature and will.

The Role of Scripture

Scripture is the primary vehicle of true revelation, serving as the authoritative record of God's communication with humanity. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 emphasizes the divine inspiration of Scripture: "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." The Bible is not merely a historical document but a living testament that continues to speak to believers today.

Discernment and True Revelation

The importance of discerning true revelation from falsehood is a recurring theme in the Bible. Believers are warned to test the spirits and teachings they encounter. 1 John 4:1 advises, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world." This discernment is essential to avoid deception and to remain grounded in the truth of God's Word.

The Holy Spirit and Revelation

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the process of revelation, guiding believers into all truth. Jesus promised the coming of the Holy Spirit as a helper and teacher in John 16:13: "However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come." The Holy Spirit illuminates the Scriptures, enabling believers to understand and apply God's revelation to their lives.

Revelation and the Church

The Church, as the body of Christ, is both a recipient and a steward of divine revelation. Ephesians 3:10-11 highlights the Church's role in making known the manifold wisdom of God: "His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms, according to the eternal purpose that He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord." The Church is tasked with preserving, proclaiming, and living out the truths of God's revelation.

Conclusion

The importance of true revelation cannot be overstated, as it is the means by which God communicates His will and purposes to humanity. Through Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and the person of Jesus Christ, believers are equipped to know God and to live according to His divine plan. The Church, as the custodian of this revelation, is called to faithfully uphold and disseminate the truth, ensuring that the light of God's revelation continues to shine in the world.