What is General and Special Revelation?
In the realm of religious understanding, the concepts of general and special revelation are crucial for comprehending how God communicates with humanity. General revelation refers to the way in which God makes Himself known through the natural world, human experience, and the Bible. Special revelation, on the other hand, involves the specific, supernatural ways in which God has revealed His will and message through His Word and His Son, Jesus Christ. This article aims to explore these two forms of revelation, their significance, and how they complement each other in the tapestry of faith.
General Revelation: God’s Presence in the Natural World
General revelation is the means by which God reveals Himself to all people, regardless of their religious beliefs or lack thereof. It is a universal phenomenon that can be observed in the natural world, the cosmos, and the human experience. The Psalms, for instance, speak of the heavens declaring the glory of God and the night sky singing His praise (Psalm 19:1-2). This cosmic revelation points to the existence and nature of God, His power, and His wisdom.
Furthermore, general revelation is evident in the moral law that is written on the hearts of all people (Romans 2:15). This intrinsic sense of right and wrong suggests that God has instilled a basic understanding of morality in humanity. This moral law serves as a foundation for ethical living and a recognition of the divine.
Special Revelation: God’s Word and His Son
While general revelation is accessible to everyone, special revelation is more specific and targeted. It involves the supernatural communication of God’s Word through His prophets, apostles, and ultimately through His Son, Jesus Christ. Special revelation is found in the Bible, which is the written Word of God.
The Old Testament contains the historical accounts of God’s dealings with His people, the laws He gave them, and the prophecies about the coming of the Messiah. The New Testament records the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the writings of the apostles, who were chosen by God to spread the good news of salvation.
Special revelation is also evident in the personal experiences of individuals who have encountered God supernaturally. These experiences, often referred to as “revelations,” can take various forms, such as dreams, visions, and direct communication with God.
Complementing Each Other
General and special revelation are not mutually exclusive but rather complement each other. General revelation provides a foundational understanding of God and His moral principles, while special revelation offers a more profound and detailed revelation of God’s will and plan for humanity.
The combination of general and special revelation is essential for a comprehensive understanding of faith. General revelation allows people to recognize the divine presence in their lives and the world around them, while special revelation provides the specific guidance and instructions needed to live a life in accordance with God’s will.
In conclusion, general and special revelation are two vital aspects of religious understanding. General revelation reveals God’s presence in the natural world and the moral law written on the hearts of people, while special revelation provides the specific, supernatural communication of God’s Word through the Bible and the life of Jesus Christ. Together, they form the basis for a vibrant, living faith that seeks to know and serve God in all aspects of life.
