The Truth About General Revelation
For his invisible attributes, that is, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what he has made. As a result, people are without excuse.
Romans 1:20(CSB)
Revelation occurs when God reveals himself to us through Scripture, the world, and various moments in life. Think of a time when God revealed something to you that was previously unknown. That’s revelation. The apostle Paul spoke of general revelation in Romans 1:20. General revelation occurs when God reveals himself through the created order.
Paul declared that creation speaks to the greatness and glory of the Lord. When we consider its intrinsic nature, we must recognize the existence of a Creator. We experience the natural knowledge of right and wrong that is written upon our hearts. This revelation comes from the Lord, who is the existence of righteousness. The presence of general revelation makes it impossible to ignore the existence of the Lord.
Paul affirmed the significance of general revelation by declaring that people do not have an excuse to ignore the Lord because creation declares his glory and greatness. To ignore the Lord is nothing more than an act of rebellion against common sense. The things visible reveal the invisible glory and greatness of the Lord and His power. Creation points us toward our Creator.
General revelation finds affirmation in Scripture. Scripture explains how creation occurred and declares how it points to God. The Lord often used images within creation to teach truth. General revelation supports the words of Scripture and provides an avenue to engage people with the truth of the gospel.
When you consider general revelation, how do you see God through creation? Do you see His glory? Do you see His intrinsic design? Do you see His power and goodness?
QUESTIONS
How does looking at creation and the world around us point us to the reality of God and to the need of a Savior?
How does the evidence in creation support the truthfulness of Scripture?
