Welcome to Theology Thursday!
This is where I seek to deliver a bite-sized lesson in orthodox, Biblical doctrine in 3 simple steps…
ONE concept explained
TWO concise definitions that must be kept distinct
THREE Scripture passages to meditate on
Concept: Special Revelation
Special Revelation is the idea that God has revealed Himself uniquely through the Holy Scriptures (The Bible). From the beginning of time, God revealed Himself through His creation. Man can know God generally through what He created so that they are without excuse and cannot claim to be ignorant of the existence of a creator. But mankind cannot know God truly through creation, more is needed— we need His Word in the form of writing to reveal Himself and the way of salvation. This is why some have called the Bible “Redemptive Revelation.”
Definitions/Distinctions:
Scripture: The Word of God written and the only sufficient, certain, and infallible standard of all saving knowledge, faith, and obedience (2LCF 1:1).
General Revelation: The light of nature and works of creation that give mankind some semblance of the knowledge of God, but not a true saving knowledge of God.
Passages:
“The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork.”
Psalm 19:1
“… and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”
2 Timothy 3:15
“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.”
2 Timothy 3:16–17