On-going Revelation

Many people believe in on-going revelation.  They think God continues to reveal truth to one or more people on earth.  Mormons believe God guided Joseph Smith, Jr., into new truth.  Catholics believe their pope is inspired of God and issues binding edicts.  Pentecostals and Charismatics think the Holy Spirit personally indwells them and leads them in what to think, say, and do—even beyond their ability to resist (contra Acts 7:51).  Still, many members of denominations believe the Lord guides them in some mysterious way—at times in ways contrary to the Bible (i.e. that an adulterous marriage is acceptable to God because He wants them to be “happy”).

The Bible is clear that there is no such thing as on-going revelation.  Jude said, “the faith…was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 3).  Peter said God had given “all things that pertain to life and godliness” (2 Pet. 1:3).  Now, either God revealed all that needed to be revealed in the first century or He did not.  If He did, then what was revealed then was sufficient for them and us.  If He did not, then men and women of the first century lacked the full truth of God’s will; they were short-changed.  However, we know this is not true because Jesus said the Holy Spirit would guide the apostles into ALL truth (Jn. 16:13).  Besides, if God does continue to reveal truth, then where are the books we need to add to the New Testament?

Friends, do not be led astray by those who claim to have special guidance from God.  Stick to the Bible, the revealed and confirmed will of God.

God is spirit,
and those who worship Him
must worship in spirit and truth.
- John 4:24

A Ready Defense
By Josh McDowell