What Is General Revelation?

Theologians distinguish between two kinds of divine revelation. General revelation is God's universal disclosure of Himself to all humanity through what He has made and how He governs the world. Special revelation is His specific disclosure through Scripture and supremely through Christ. Psalm 19:1-3 is the classic statement of general revelation: 'The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.' Creation itself is a wordless sermon proclaiming God's wisdom, power, and beauty. Romans 1:19-20 develops this further: 'Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse.' Conscience is another form of general revelation. Romans 2:14-15 says that even Gentiles without the written law have 'the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness.' God's moral nature is impressed on the human heart. His providence — sending rain on the just and unjust, filling hearts with food and gladness (Acts 14:17) — also testifies to His goodness. General revelation is sufficient to render every person accountable to God. No one can stand at the final judgment and say, 'I never knew.' But general revelation is not sufficient to save. It tells us God exists, that He is powerful and moral, that we are accountable. But it does not tell us of Christ crucified for sinners. For that we need special revelation. General revelation makes the gospel necessary; special revelation makes salvation possible.