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What Does The Term Revelation Mean in The Bible?

What Does The Term Revelation Mean in The Bible?

Last updated on: November 27, 2014 at 6:17 pm by Michael Krauszer

What Does The Term Revelation Mean in The Bible? 2014-11-27T18:17:03-06:00 Michael Krauszer

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The Bible is certainly a difficult book to understand. Despite the fact that many of us are separated by the culture we live in, we’re also removed by thousands of years. It’s full of ancient writing techniques, cultural ideas and symbols, and words that can be difficult to understand. Much of this is due to the way the text is translated into English (or any other language other than the original), but the fact remains; it can be difficult to read, which leads to discouragement. Yet, I implore you to continue on! You can understand what it has to say, especially in the information age we live. One such problem people often have when reading the Bible is in regards to the term “revelation.” So, what does the term revelation mean in the Bible?

Misconception

Contrary to popular opinion, the term revelation does not automatically refer to the Book of Revelation, the last book of the Bible. Unfortunately, the term is often immediately equated to that by Hollywood and many other aspects of culture. However, it is not always true. Yes, Revelation is a book of the Bible—but that is only because of what is contained within the book itself. God specifically gave the author of Revelation visions of things to come, and made him write it down for the edification of the church. It’s definitely confusing at times, but that is the immediate context of the book. In fact, the Greek name for the book is Apocalypse, which can mean disclosure.

So what does it mean?

What does the term “revelation” really mean than? Well, as you can ascertain from the name, the implication is that something is being revealed. In the Bible, this almost always refers to God revealing something to a prophet or an apostle. In many ways, the Bible itself is a revelation—it speaks the truth of what God has done in the world. It reveals all the truth we need to know for salvation.

Theologically speaking

In terms of Christian theology, the term revelation goes a bit further. Yes, it’s still a revealing of truth from God. However, there are two different aspects of it:

Special Revelation
General Revelation

General revelation is the way God has made Himself known through nature, or creation. It is taught in passages like Psalm 19 and Romans 1. Essentially, general revelation shows all people (not just believers) that there is a God (because of the world that was created around us), which also implies it must be some type of creative and powerful God. However, that is clearly not sufficient to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, which is where special revelation comes into play.

Special revelation, is contrast, is God revealing Himself in more miraculous ways. This is done through visions, dreams, appearances of God, the Bible, and Jesus Christ. Whereas general revelation reveals some information, special revelation reveals much more. It shows who Jesus is, what He did, and how we are to respond. In other words, special revelation provides a more intimate knowledge of God. Perhaps the greatest summary of special revelation, especially in terms of Jesus Christ, is found within Hebrews 1:1-2, which reads: “God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, through whom also He made the worlds.” In other words, God used to speak to people through His prophets (through special revelation, like dreams, visions, and the written Word of God), but now speaks through Jesus Christ. Christ is certainly the greatest special revelation that we have.

Conclusion

So, the term “revelation” can take on a few different meanings, but they are not so different from one another. They may refer to some different things, but for the most part, when used in the Bible, it is talking about God revealing Himself through some type of means. This can mean through nature, through His Word, or some other options like dreams or visions. Whatever the case may be, something about God is being revealed. Additionally, the term revelation can be used to refer to the actual book of the Bible with the same name, which showcases numerous visions, or “revelations.” Have anything to add to this article? Go ahead and leave a comment below—perhaps you’ll be “revealing” something to someone in a way that I was not able to. You never know how one comment can help someone!

Article By Michael Krauzer

Michael Krauszer is the founder of ChristianLitReview.com, a website dedicated to providing a Christian perspective on all forms of literature. Additionally, Michael has been a full-time staff member at Calvary Chapel Old Bridge for the last four years, working as a Ministry Assistant and Pastoral Intern. He received his Bachelor of Arts in English from The College of New Jersey and is currently in pursuit of his MA in Theological Studies from Veritas Evangelical Seminary. Michael is also a Christian freelance writer and you can find some of his writing at FaithAndEntertainment. Visit Michael’s Facebook page here: Christian Literature Review

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