Theology Terms Explained: “General Revelation”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced or synonymous terms.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
General Revelation
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: “The knowledge of God accessible to all people through nature, reason, and conscience.”
FTG Expanded Explanation:
General revelation is how God makes Himself known to all people, everywhere, at all times through creation and the human conscience. It reveals that God exists, that He is powerful, and that He is worthy of worship. However, it does not reveal the gospel or provide saving knowledge. It leaves humanity without excuse but not redeemed.
The Biblical Connection
Romans 1:20-21 – “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse. For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.”
Acts 14:17 – “And yet He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good and gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons…”
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“People who’ve never read the Bible know God exists because of general revelation. Creation itself points to God, even if it doesn’t explain how to be saved.”
“Every sunrise, every storm, every star-filled sky is God declaring His power and existence to the world, leaving no one with an excuse to deny Him.”
“Even the human conscience as our built-in sense of right and wrong echoes God’s law, quietly testifying that we are accountable to a holy Creator we did not invent.”
