How does God reveal Himself?

I. Introduction: The Nature of Divine Revelation

God’s self-disclosure is foundational to understanding His nature and purpose for humanity. Across Scripture, we see that God reveals Himself through both external and internal means, inviting humanity into a relationship with Him. As Romans 1:19–20 teaches, “what may be known about God is plain... because God has made it plain.” This entry explores the numerous ways God communicates His character and will, culminating in the ultimate revelation of Jesus Christ.

II. General Revelation

A. Creation as a Testament to God’s Character

Psalm 19:1 proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” The natural world—from the vastness of galaxies to the intricate design of DNA—displays evidence of purposeful craftsmanship. Outside scientific research has underscored the complexity and apparent “fine-tuning” of the universe. For instance, the tightly calibrated values of fundamental physical constants suggest an intelligent Designer rather than random chance.

B. Conscience and Moral Law

Romans 2:14–15 describes how even those without direct knowledge of the law “show that the work of the law is written on their hearts.” The universal sense of right and wrong points to a moral lawgiver who instills this moral compass within humanity. Philosophically and behaviorally, this aligns with the observation that cultures throughout history have upheld certain basic ethical norms, suggesting a common source beyond mere human invention.

III. Special Revelation

A. Scripture as God’s Inspired Word

Second Timothy 3:16 affirms, “All Scripture is God-breathed.” Scripture provides a distinct and accurate witness to God’s dealings with humanity. While the natural world hints at His existence, the Bible gives specific details regarding His character, will, and redemptive plan. Archaeological discoveries such as the Dead Sea Scrolls corroborate the remarkable consistency of the biblical text over millennia. Scholars have analyzed thousands of manuscripts—ancient Greek texts, Hebrew manuscripts, and early translations—and found them to be extraordinarily cohesive. This textual fidelity strengthens confidence that Scripture faithfully conveys God’s revelation.

B. God’s Covenants and Prophetic Word

Throughout biblical history, God has revealed Himself in covenant relationships (e.g., with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David). He spoke through prophets who brought messages of repentance, hope, and future events fulfilled in precise detail. For example, Isaiah’s prophecies (e.g., Isaiah 53) regarding the suffering servant align astonishingly with the life, sacrificial death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Second Peter 1:20–21 underscores, “No prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation... men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”

IV. The Fullness of Revelation in Jesus Christ

A. The Incarnation

John 1:14 declares, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Jesus Christ is the exact imprint of God’s nature, uniquely revealing God’s character in human form. As Hebrews 1:3 explains, the Son is “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature.” Through Christ’s words and actions—His compassion for the lost, miraculous healings, and authoritative teaching—God’s heart is made undeniably clear.

B. The Crucifixion and Resurrection

The death and resurrection of Christ stand as the apex of God’s self-disclosure. First Corinthians 15:3–4 reminds believers that Christ died for sins and rose on the third day “according to the Scriptures.” Numerous historical lines of evidence and eyewitness testimonies highlight the credibility of the Resurrection. Early creedal statements, recorded within mere years of the events, emphasize the transformational impact on individuals like Paul—a former persecutor who became an apostle. Such an event defies natural explanation and underscores God’s power over life and death.

V. The Work of the Holy Spirit

A. Illumination of Truth

Jesus taught that the Holy Spirit would guide believers into all truth (John 16:13). The Spirit not only inspired Scripture’s formation but also works today, convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). This convicting role illuminates the spiritual significance of God’s revealed Word.

B. Empowering and Giftings

Through the Holy Spirit, God equips believers with varying spiritual gifts to serve and testify about Christ’s grace (1 Corinthians 12). Historical and modern accounts of healing, answered prayer, and transformed lives continue to demonstrate the Spirit’s active involvement, displaying God’s power and faithfulness.

VI. Miraculous Signs and Wonders

A. Biblical Testimony of Miracles

From the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14) to the resurrection of Lazarus (John 11), Scripture documents events that supersede natural laws. These miracles confirm God’s sovereignty and authenticate His messengers.

B. Modern-Day Accounts

While Scripture remains the ultimate authority, notable contemporary testimonies of healing and supernatural intervention echo biblical precedents. Studies documenting instantaneous recoveries, provided medical verification, and personal testimonies serve as anecdotal evidence that God is still actively revealing His power.

VII. God Revealed through Historical and Archaeological Support

A. Confirmation of Biblical Events

Archaeological discoveries such as the Tel Dan Stele referencing the “House of David,” excavations at Jericho, and evidence of widespread flood legends support key biblical narratives. Similarly, the meticulous transmission of the biblical text is exemplified in the Dead Sea Scrolls, which show remarkably limited textual variation across centuries.

B. Genealogical Timelines and Young Earth Considerations

Detailed genealogies in Genesis (e.g., chapters 5 and 11) outline lifespans and lineages, presenting a coherent timeline from Adam through subsequent generations. While interpretive nuances exist, many see this as evidence supporting a relatively young age for humanity (commonly inferred to be within thousands of years). Geological examples including fossil layering and soft tissue preservation in certain dinosaur remnants are cited by some researchers as consistent with a shorter timeline rather than protracted eons.

VIII. Personal and Relational Revelation

A. The Inner Witness

Beyond external evidences, God also reveals Himself through personal experience. In John 14:9, Jesus said, “Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father.” The transformational encounter with Christ, accompanied by regeneration and a renewed heart, is a powerful testimony of God’s self-disclosure. Millions across diverse cultures testify to a profound, life-altering change that resonates with Scripture’s promise of a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

B. Ongoing Fellowship

God’s desire is not merely that we acknowledge His existence, but that we know Him intimately. Through prayer, worship, and communal fellowship, God continues to reveal His presence and guidance, confirming the reality of an ongoing relationship.

IX. Conclusion: The Purpose of God’s Revelation

God reveals Himself for His glory and our redemption. While creation provides a universal witness, Scripture, the Holy Spirit’s work, and especially the person of Jesus Christ comprise the fullest expression of God’s character and plan.

Through archaeological evidence, historical documentation, and the consistent manuscript record, we find further confirmation of Scripture’s reliability. Scientific insights into the intricacies of life and the cosmos point toward an intelligent Designer. Modern testimonies of miracles and changed lives bolster ancient accounts of God’s intervening power.

Ultimately, God’s self-disclosure invites a response of faith, indicative of our chief purpose: to know Him, embrace His salvation, and glorify Him in all things. As Jesus proclaimed in John 17:3, “This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.”