Divine Revelation

Divine revelation refers to the act by which God discloses Himself and His will to humanity. This concept is foundational to Christian theology, as it asserts that God has made Himself known to His creation in specific ways. The Bible is considered the primary source of divine revelation, containing the inspired words of God as communicated through human authors.

1. General Revelation: This is the knowledge of God that is available to all people through nature and conscience. Psalm 19:1-2 states, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they reveal knowledge." Romans 1:20 further emphasizes, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."

2. Special Revelation: This refers to God's specific communications to humanity, which include the Scriptures, the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, and the prophetic messages given through the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 1:1-2 explains, "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."

3. The Role of Scripture: The Bible is central to special revelation, serving as the authoritative record of God's dealings with humanity. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 affirms, "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."

4. Revelation through Jesus Christ: Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God, embodying the fullness of divine truth and grace. John 1:14 declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Divine Presence

The divine presence refers to God's active and sustaining presence in the world and in the lives of believers. This presence is both transcendent, existing beyond the physical universe, and immanent, intimately involved with creation.

1. God's Omnipresence: Scripture affirms that God is present everywhere. Psalm 139:7-10 beautifully captures this truth: "Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle by the farthest sea, even there Your hand will guide me; Your right hand will hold me fast."

2. The Indwelling of the Holy Spirit: For believers, the presence of God is experienced through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 6:19 states, "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own."

3. God's Presence in Worship and Prayer: The Bible teaches that God is uniquely present when His people gather for worship and prayer. Matthew 18:20 promises, "For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them."

4. The Assurance of God's Presence: Believers are assured of God's continual presence, providing comfort and guidance. Hebrews 13:5 encourages, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: 'Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.'"

In summary, divine revelation and presence are central themes in the Christian faith, emphasizing God's desire to be known and to dwell among His people. Through both general and special revelation, and through His omnipresence and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, God remains actively engaged with His creation.