CONVINCED: The Process Of Revelation
Luke 9:18–20 (ESV) Now it happened that as he was praying alone, the disciples were with him. And he asked them, “Who do the crowds say that I am?” And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.” Then he said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” And Peter answered, “The Christ of God.”
Matthew 16:13–17 (ESV) Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.
What Is Revelation?
General Revelation: disclosure of truth through nature, history, and the human conscience.
Supernatural Revelation: the uncovering through the spirit.
2 Kings 6:15–17 (ESV) When the servant of the man of God rose early in the morning and went out, behold, an army with horses and chariots was all around the city. And the servant said, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” He said, “Do not be afraid, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” Then Elisha prayed and said, “O LORD, please open his eyes that he may see.” So the LORD opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw, and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.
Why Is Revelation Necessary?
General Revelation Leads To Opinions
And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
And they answered, “John the Baptist. But others say, Elijah, and others, that one of the prophets of old has risen.”
Jesus Impact Is Obvious - General Revelation/Opinions:
Religion: Christianity, the religion founded on the teachings of Jesus, is the largest religion in the world, with approximately 2.3 billion adherents, making up nearly one-third of the global population.
Global Recognition: Jesus is recognized not only in Christianity but also in other religions like Islam, where he is regarded as a prophet. This highlights his broader historical and cultural impact across different belief systems.
Art and Literature: Jesus has been a central figure in Western art, literature, and music for centuries. Countless works in these fields have been inspired by his life and teachings, including masterpieces by artists such as Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Holidays and Festivals: Christmas and Easter, two of the most widely celebrated holidays globally, commemorate Jesus's birth and resurrection, respectively, highlighting his cultural significance.
Influence on Laws and Ethics: Many modern legal systems and ethical frameworks are influenced by Christian values derived from Jesus's teachings, such as the emphasis on compassion, forgiveness, and the sanctity of life.
Social Movements: Jesus’s teachings on love, justice, and equality have inspired numerous social movements, including the abolition of slavery, civil rights movements, and contemporary social justice efforts.
Phrases and Sayings: Many common phrases in English and other languages stem from Jesus's teachings (e.g., "turn the other cheek," "the Good Samaritan"), demonstrating his impact on language and moral discourse.
Education and Healthcare: Many universities, hospitals, and charitable organizations were founded by Christians inspired by Jesus’s teachings, which have had a lasting positive effect on society.
Continued Relevance: His teachings and parables are referenced in diverse contexts, from philosophy and ethics to psychology and conflict resolution. Many people across various cultures find relevance in his messages, irrespective of religious beliefs.
A Supernatural Revelation Is Necessary To Know God
John 6:44 (ESV) No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day.
1 Corinthians 2:14 (ESV) The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
How Does Revelation Happen?
Proverbs 20:27 (ESV) The spirit of man is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.
Genesis 1:2 (ESV) The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters.
John 12:32 (ESV) And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.”
John 14:26 (ESV) But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.
Revelation ≠ Response
1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV) But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
James 2:17 (ESV) So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
Romans 10:9 (ESV) because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Revelation 20:12, 15 (ESV) And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done… And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.