Question 49 :: What is special revelation?

Answer:

Special revelation refers to the truths that can be known about God only through supernatural communication.

Children:

Special revelation are truths about God made known by God.

Hebrews 1:1-3

In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. 

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Commentary:
Special revelation is how God has chosen to reveal Himself through miraculous means. Special revelation includes physical appearances of God, dreams, visions, the written Word of God, and most importantly—Jesus himself (Heb 1:1-2). The Bible records God appearing in physical form many times (Gen 3:8, 18:1; Ex 3:1-4, 34:5-7), and the Bible records God speaking to people through dreams (Gen 28:12, 37:5; 1 Ki 3:5; Dan 2) and visions (Gen 15:1; Ez 8:3-4; Dan 7; 2 Cor 12:1-7). Of primary importance in the revealing of God is His Word, the Bible, which is also a form of special revelation. God miraculously guided the authors of Scripture to record His message to mankind, using their own writing styles and personalities. Salvation can only be found in special revelation. That is why it is so important for believers to proclaim the gospel to every nation and throughout the world.

Further Study:

Deu 13:1-4; Mat 28:19-20; John 3:16; 2 Tim 3:16-17; Heb 1:1-2, 4:12; Rev 22:18-19.