General Revelation and Special Revelation and their Relationship to One Another
by Bryan Carlson
General revelation and special revelation are two ways in which God reveals Himself and His truth to humanity.
General revelation refers to the knowledge of God that is available to all people through creation, conscience, and the observation of natural laws. This type of revelation is general in the sense that it is not limited to any specific time or place, and it is accessible to all people regardless of their culture, background, or beliefs. General revelation can be seen as the natural means by which God makes Himself known to all people, and it serves as a witness to His existence and character. Psalm 19:1-6 tells us, “The heavens tell of the glory of God; and their expanse declares the work of His hands. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.” “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, being understood by what has been made, so that they are without excuse” (Romans 1:18-20). “Conscience seems to be the built in awareness of guilt as a part of the image of God in man. In other words, God has made man with a sense of what is right and what is wrong” (Faith notes 88). “In that they show the work of the Law written in their hearts; their conscience bearing witness, and their thoughts alternately accusing or else defending them” (Romans 2:15). “Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for the sake of conscience” (Romans 13:5).
Special revelation refers to the specific and supernatural ways in which God reveals Himself and His truth to individuals or groups of people. This can include direct communication from God, such as at creation (Genesis 2), through prophecy or dreams (i.e., Joseph, Isaiah, Ezekiel), through Theophanies/Christophanies (Exodus 40), as well as through the written Word of God, the Bible. Special revelation is more specific and authoritative than general revelation, as it provides a more direct and clear understanding of God's truth and will for humanity. “All Scripture is inspired by God” (2 Timothy 3:16).
The relationship between general and special revelation is complementary. General revelation provides a basic understanding of God's existence and character, while special revelation provides a more complete and specific understanding of His truth and will. The nature of the authority of general and special revelation can be seen as follows: general revelation is authoritative in the sense that it serves as a witness to the existence and character of God, and it is used by God to convict people of their sin and to lead them to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Special revelation, on the other hand, is authoritative in the sense that it provides a direct and clear understanding of God's truth and will for humanity, and it is the final authority in all matters of faith and practice. Special revelation is required for salvation.
Faith Biblical Counseling, ACBC Exam Track 5, 88.
