“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.” – 2 Timothy 3:16
The Nature of Special Revelation
We understand special revelation as God’s personal communication to humanity, distinct from general revelation found in nature. Special revelation includes His Word, visions, dreams, and, ultimately, the person of Jesus Christ. It is a way for God to make known His will, character, and purpose for our lives. This type of revelation helps us understand that while God’s existence can be seen in creation, it’s through special revelation that we learn about His love, grace, and the salvation He offers. We can read the Bible and see how these teachings are brought to life, guiding us toward a deeper relationship with our Creator. The essence of this type of revelation assures us that God desires to be known and invites us into His story.
Hebrews 1:1-2
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.” – Hebrews 1:1-2
John 1:14
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” – John 1:14
Acts 2:17
“‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” – Acts 2:17
Isaiah 53:1
“Who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” – Isaiah 53:1
Romans 10:17
“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” – Romans 10:17
Jesus as the Ultimate Revelation
We recognize that the life and actions of Jesus are the ultimate expression of God’s special revelation. Through Jesus, we see God’s heart and purpose displayed in the flesh. He came to teach us, heal us, and show us how to love one another. As we navigate through the challenges of life, we can look to Jesus as the ultimate guide that reveals the path of righteousness and hope. By studying His life and teachings, we not only learn about God’s character but also how we can embody that love and grace in our daily lives. The Gospels furnish us with His examples of love, mercy, and compassion, which inspire us to do the same for others.
Matthew 11:27
“All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” – Matthew 11:27
John 14:9
“Jesus answered: ‘Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?” – John 14:9
Colossians 1:15
“The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation.” – Colossians 1:15
John 10:30
“I and the Father are one.” – John 10:30
Hebrews 1:3
“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” – Hebrews 1:3
God’s Word as Special Revelation
We often find comfort and guidance in the Scriptures, written under the influence of the Holy Spirit, which captures God’s truths for our lives. These truths give us direction and insight into God’s plan, equipping us to face the challenges and uncertainties life presents. The written word serves as a foundation for our faith and allows us to grow in the knowledge of our Lord. Spending time in Scripture, we uncover how God continues to speak to us through His stories, laws, and principles. Each verse is a special revelation, reminding us of His love, promises, and teachings that guide us in our walk.
Psalm 119:105
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” – Psalm 119:105
2 Peter 1:20-21
“Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet’s own interpretation of things. For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” – 2 Peter 1:20-21
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” – Hebrews 4:12
1 Thessalonians 2:13
“And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.” – 1 Thessalonians 2:13
James 1:22
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” – James 1:22
Reliance on the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit plays an essential role in providing us with special revelation. He speaks to our hearts, guiding us in our prayers, understanding, and interpretations of God’s Word. Through the Holy Spirit, we are taught how to apply God’s truths in our everyday lives. We need to be open to His leading, allowing the Holy Spirit to illuminate our understanding and reveal God’s heart to us. As we cultivate this relationship, we become more attuned to His voice, discerning God’s will and purpose. It’s through this reliance on the Holy Spirit that we deepen our faith and enhance our spiritual journey.
John 16:13
“But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.” – John 16:13
1 Corinthians 2:12
“What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.” – 1 Corinthians 2:12
Galatians 5:25
“Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” – Galatians 5:25
Romans 8:14
“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” – Romans 8:14
1 John 2:27
“As for you, the anointing you received from him remains in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you. But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him.” – 1 John 2:27
The Purpose of Special Revelation
We can understand that special revelation serves the purpose of drawing us closer to God and helping us grow in our faith. It reveals the depths of His love and grace, reminding us to share this gift with others. As the knowledge of God unfolds, we see the call to reflect His character in our relationships and communities. Special revelation empowers us to fulfill the Great Commission, using the insights gained to build others up and share the good news. The more we acknowledge and embrace this revelation, the more we can replicate God’s love in our actions and words.
Matthew 28:19-20
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19-20
John 17:3
“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” – John 17:3
2 Corinthians 5:18
“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.” – 2 Corinthians 5:18
Ephesians 3:20
“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.” – Ephesians 3:20
2 Timothy 3:15
“And how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Timothy 3:15
Benefits of Special Revelation
When we embrace special revelation, we unlock the blessings of knowing God intimately. The truths we uncover provide comfort, guidance, and clarity when we feel lost or doubtful. These revelations ground our faith amid life’s storms, instilling hope and unwavering confidence in God’s promises. Understanding special revelation further encourages us to communicate with God through prayer, allowing us to express our hearts openly. This strengthens our relationship with Him and enables us to navigate life’s challenges with wisdom, courage, and resilience. By recognizing the benefits of special revelation, we grow more deeply in our faith.
Psalm 19:7-8
“The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.” – Psalm 19:7-8
Proverbs 2:6
“For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” – Proverbs 2:6
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:19
Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31
James 1:5
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” – James 1:5
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the concept of special revelation, we can see how God continuously seeks to connect with us. Through Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the Scriptures, God reveals His truth and love for His people. Taking time to explore what special revelation means enriches our spiritual journey. It encourages us to seek a deeper relationship with God, allowing His truths to transform our lives.
In every encounter with God’s revelation, we are invited to share that light with others. Each of us has a unique role in God’s plan to reveal His love in the world. By being faithful to the Word and responsive to the Holy Spirit, we can make a meaningful impact on those around us.
Let us continuously marvel at the beauty of God’s special revelation and allow it to guide us in our walk of faith. Those looking for encouragement may find it helpful to explore more topics, such as knowledge and learning or learning about God.