Lesson Two: Special Revelation

Elder Mike Collier

CLASS NOTES

Special Revelation

1. Definition: God’s specific and personal revelation of His attributes, plans, and purposes through prophets, Scripture, and ultimately, Jesus Christ.
2. Forms of Special Revelation:
   • Events: Redemptive acts in history (e.g., Exodus, Resurrection).
   • Words: Scripture and oral prophecy.
   • Persons: God’s ultimate revelation in Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3).

Key Concepts

1. Special Revelation Characteristics:
   • Authoritative: Commands obedience (e.g., Adam’s prohibition in Eden).
   • Personal: Addressed to specific individuals or groups.
   • Clear: Always comprehensible in its intent.
2. Progression:
3. Special revelation unfolds progressively across history, culminating in Jesus Christ, the final Word of God (John 1:14; Hebrews 1:1-2).

Examples of Special Revelation

• Old Testament: Prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah) received direct revelation (“Thus says the Lord”).
• Unwritten Forms: God’s use of events (e.g., Sodom’s destruction) and tools like the Urim and Thummim to communicate His will.
• New Testament: The Gospels record Jesus’ ministry; Apostles write letters under divine inspiration.

Practical Takeaways

1. Scripture as the Final Revelation:
   • The Bible is self-authenticating, fully inspired, and sufficient for life and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
2. No New Revelation:
3. Claims of modern prophecy or revelation must align with and be tested by Scripture.
4. Applications:

1. Understand God’s character through His Word.
2. Appreciate the completeness of God’s revelation in Christ.

Conclusion:

Scripture remains the ultimate and final authority for faith and practice.

Special revelation is redemptive, progressive, and culminates in Jesus Christ.