2 Timothy 3:16 (NKJV) states:
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
This verse clearly establishes that all Scripture is divinely inspired, breathed out by God, and serves as the foundation for teaching, guidance, and moral direction in the life of a believer. Similarly, Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV) declares:
“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
Here, Scripture is described as dynamic and active, capable of penetrating deeply into human hearts and minds.
In this context, these verses affirm the authority of the Word of God. When we expand this understanding to John 1:1-5 (NKJV), where John writes:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it,”
We see that Jesus is described as the living Word. The Word becoming flesh demonstrates that there is a living, relational aspect to God’s communication with humanity.
Within the Word, there is natural revelation, which provides humanity with glimpses of God through creation, nature, and the moral beauty observed in people. This natural revelation gives insight into God’s character and allows humanity to understand Him to some degree. However, natural revelation cannot replace special revelation. Special revelation comes through Scripture, the person of Jesus Christ, and direct encounters with God, such as the transformative experience John Wesley had at Aldersgate, where he felt the Holy Spirit reveal a profound scriptural truth within him. This special revelation, when aligned with Scripture, can profoundly shape an individual’s life and ministry.
Both natural and special revelation are important, but special revelation holds particular power because it confirms, illuminates, and deepens the truth found in Scripture. The New Testament provides multiple examples of special revelation to the apostles and disciples (Nathaniel in John 1, the Woman at the well in John 4, the disciples in Luke 24 on the road to Emaus, Paul on the road to Damascus). These revelations tangibly revealed eternal truths, giving them understanding about the heart of God that transformed their lives. Also, enabling them to share these truths with others and, in doing so, turn personal insight into communal understanding. Deuteronomy 29:29 (NKJV) reinforces this: “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law.” This verse reminds us that God reveals aspects of His heart to humanity, and these revelations are intended to bless and enlighten His people, becoming part of the church’s history with God.
Importantly, special revelation can never contradict the written Word of God. When special revelation comes from the Holy Spirit—the same Spirit who inspired Scripture—it aligns perfectly with the truth of the Bible. This creates a harmonious relationship between the written Word (Logos) and the experiential, revelatory work of the Spirit, manifesting in lives as a living and active Word.
John 1:1-5 emphasises that Jesus, the Word, became flesh and dwelt among us. This represents revelation made tangible—something that can be seen, experienced, and felt—and signals the transformative impact of God’s Word on human history. Special revelation, therefore, complements Scripture; it deepens understanding, drives the church forward, and has historically led to monumental movements such as the Reformation. Figures like Martin Luther experienced special revelation of a well-known truth that confirmed and expanded their understanding of God’s Word, ultimately impacting the broader body of Christ.
In conclusion, both natural and special revelation are vital. Scripture remains the ultimate measure and standard against which all experiences and revelations must be evaluated. Special revelation enhances the church’s understanding, guides spiritual growth, and empowers believers to engage deeply with God’s living Word. When properly discerned and aligned with Scripture, special revelation not only strengthens individual faith but also drives the church forward in transformative ways.