Special revelation – Christian perspectives
Christians believe that God can reveal Himself to them directly in different ways.
Visions and dreams
In the Bible it is taught that God communicates with His people through visions and dreams. Some Christians believe that God still speaks to people in this way.
And He said, ‘Hear my words: If there is a prophet among you, I the LORD make myself known to him in a vision, I speak with him in a dream.’
Miracles
Many Christians believe that God is involved in people’s lives. They believe that He is occasionally revealed privately to individuals through miracles, prayer and worship. Miracles are often perceived to be God revealing Himself and answering prayer.
And one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear. But Jesus said, ‘No more of this!’ And he touched his ear and healed him.
Direct meetings
Some Christians believe that God meets with them directly, through worship or prayer. They might feel the presence of God when they are praying, or have a prayer answered. Some Christians say that when they worship they feel the presence of the Holy SpiritThe third element of the 'Trinity' (God is the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit). The Holy Spirit is active as God's presence and power in the world., which is the power of God at work. An example can be found in ActsThe fifth book of the New Testament, its full title is 'Acts of the Apostles'. 9 when Saul met God on the road to Damascus.
What is learned about God in these revelations?
For the Christian receiving these special revelations, God is a personal and living God. They believe God still communicates with His followers and treats them as individuals. Visions and dreams suggest to Christians that God knows and understands what is happening in their lives.