revelation Flashcards
quotes for general revelation
“all scripture is divinely inspired and has its use for teaching the truth and refuting error, for reformation of manners and discipline in right living” - Timothy 3:16
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” - Psalm 19.1
quotes for special revelation
“when there is a prophet among you, I, the lord, reveal myself to them in visions, I speak to them in dreams” - Numbers 12.6
what is general revelation
Many people come to know God through general revelation, which is through ordinary, everyday human experience.
General revelation comes to people through seeing God’s presence in nature, in Scripture or through a person’s conscience or sense of right and wrong.
explain two contrasting approaches to the use of scripture for knowledge of God in religious thought
Literalist view - agree with the literal interpretation of the Bible and think that it contains God’s actual words which must not be changed or questioned. There can be no error. The Bible is often called ‘the Word of God’ by people who hold this view.
“all scripture is divinely inspired (God-breathed)”.
Liberalist view - sees the Bible as inspired by God but able to be interpreted for people today. The text provides insights into God but it needs to be seen in its social context and historical time. A liberal theologian would feel free to make judgements on the practice and attitudes found in the Bible.
faith vs reason
faith –> knowing God
reason –> knowing of God
quotes for God’s nature
“You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar” - Psalm 139.1-2
“For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” - John 3.16
“God is the sum of all perfections” - Descartes
what is special revelation
God making himself known through direct personal experience or an unusual specific event e.g. visions.
what is the value of revelation
- provides theists with proof of God’s existence
- helps start a religion
- enables believers to have a relationship with God
- help people to know what God wants
