Bible glossary

What Does ‘Revelation’ Mean in the Bible?

Revelation is God unveiling what we could never discover on our own: making Himself and His purposes known, supremely in Jesus.

To reveal is to uncover, to make known what was hidden. Revelation is God taking the initiative to disclose Himself, because we could never fully find Him by our own searching. He shows His character, His will, and His plan of salvation.

The Bible speaks of God revealing Himself in creation, which points to His power and beauty, and far more clearly through His word and His prophets. But the fullest revelation is a Person: God stepping into history to be seen and known.

Key verses

“Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.”
Amos 3:7

“For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.”
Galatians 1:12

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”
2 Timothy 3:16