The Event of Divine Confirmation refers to moments in biblical history where God unmistakably affirms His will, presence, or promises to His people. These events serve as pivotal points in the narrative of Scripture, providing assurance and direction to individuals and the community of believers. Divine confirmation often involves miraculous signs, prophetic fulfillment, or direct communication from God.

Old Testament Instances

1. The Covenant with Abraham: One of the earliest examples of divine confirmation is found in God's covenant with Abraham. In Genesis 15, God confirms His promise to Abraham through a vision and a covenant ceremony. "On that day the LORD made a covenant with Abram, saying, 'To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great River Euphrates'" (Genesis 15:18). This event reassures Abraham of God's promise to make him a great nation.

2. Moses and the Burning Bush: In Exodus 3, God confirms His call to Moses through the miraculous sign of the burning bush. God speaks directly to Moses, affirming His intention to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. "God said, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And He said, 'You must say this to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you'" (Exodus 3:14). This divine encounter establishes Moses as the leader of the Exodus.

3. Gideon's Fleece: In Judges 6, Gideon seeks confirmation of God's will through a sign involving a fleece. Gideon asks for dew to appear on the fleece while the ground remains dry, and then for the reverse. God grants both requests, confirming His promise to deliver Israel through Gideon. "And that is what happened. When Gideon rose early the next day, he squeezed the fleece and wrung out the dew—a bowlful of water" (Judges 6:38).

New Testament Instances

1. The Baptism of Jesus: The baptism of Jesus is a significant event of divine confirmation. As Jesus is baptized by John the Baptist, the heavens open, and the Spirit of God descends like a dove. A voice from heaven declares, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased" (Matthew 3:17). This event confirms Jesus' identity and mission as the Messiah.

2. The Transfiguration: In Matthew 17, Jesus is transfigured before Peter, James, and John. His face shines like the sun, and His clothes become white as light. Moses and Elijah appear, and a voice from the cloud says, "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. Listen to Him!" (Matthew 17:5). This event confirms Jesus' divine nature and authority.

3. The Resurrection of Jesus: The resurrection is the ultimate event of divine confirmation, affirming Jesus' victory over sin and death. The empty tomb and Jesus' appearances to His disciples confirm the truth of His teachings and the fulfillment of prophecy. "He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He lay" (Matthew 28:6).

Theological Significance

Divine confirmation serves to strengthen faith, guide decision-making, and validate God's promises. These events underscore the reliability of God's word and His active involvement in human history. They remind believers of God's sovereignty and faithfulness, encouraging trust and obedience in the face of uncertainty. Through divine confirmation, God reveals His character and purposes, inviting His people to participate in His redemptive plan.