The Divine Discourse refers to the instances in the Bible where God directly communicates with humanity. These communications are pivotal moments in the biblical narrative, revealing God's character, will, and purposes. The Divine Discourse encompasses various forms, including direct speech, visions, dreams, and angelic messages. This entry explores key instances of Divine Discourse throughout the Scriptures.

Old Testament Instances

1. Creation and the Fall: The Divine Discourse begins in Genesis with God's creative commands, "Let there be light" (Genesis 1:3), establishing the universe. God's communication with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2-3) includes instructions, blessings, and the pronouncement of consequences following the Fall.

2. Covenant with Abraham: God's promises to Abraham are foundational to the biblical narrative. In Genesis 12:1-3, God calls Abram to leave his country, promising to make him a great nation. The covenant is further elaborated in Genesis 15 and 17, where God speaks directly to Abraham, assuring him of numerous descendants and the land of Canaan.

3. The Burning Bush: In Exodus 3, God speaks to Moses from the burning bush, revealing His name, "I AM WHO I AM" (Exodus 3:14), and commissioning Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. This encounter marks a significant moment of divine revelation and mission.

4. The Giving of the Law: At Mount Sinai, God delivers the Ten Commandments to Moses, speaking directly to the people of Israel (Exodus 20). This Divine Discourse establishes the covenantal laws that define Israel's relationship with God.

5. The Prophets: Throughout the Old Testament, God communicates through prophets, delivering messages of warning, judgment, and hope. Notable examples include Isaiah's vision of God's holiness (Isaiah 6), Jeremiah's call (Jeremiah 1), and Ezekiel's visions (Ezekiel 1).

New Testament Instances

1. The Baptism of Jesus: At Jesus' baptism, God speaks from heaven, affirming Jesus' identity: "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This Divine Discourse confirms Jesus' divine sonship and mission.

2. The Transfiguration: During the Transfiguration, God again affirms Jesus' identity and authority, saying, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). This event underscores the continuity of Jesus' mission with the Law and the Prophets.

3. The Conversion of Saul: In Acts 9, Jesus speaks to Saul (later Paul) on the road to Damascus, asking, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute Me?" (Acts 9:4). This Divine Discourse leads to Saul's conversion and his mission to the Gentiles.

4. Revelation to John: The Book of Revelation is a series of divine visions given to the Apostle John. It includes messages to the seven churches and apocalyptic revelations concerning the end times (Revelation 1-22).

Themes and Significance

The Divine Discourse in the Bible reveals God's desire to communicate with humanity, guiding, instructing, and redeeming His people. These communications emphasize God's sovereignty, holiness, and love, while also highlighting human responsibility and the call to obedience. The Divine Discourse serves as a testament to God's active involvement in history and His ultimate plan for salvation through Jesus Christ.