Special Revelation–Subordinate Revelation

As I understand it, subordinate revelation is a form of special revelation where truth is divinely ascribed through another believer. Paul describes this type of revelation in 1 Corinthians. The noun translated ‘revelation’ in the 1 Corinthians 14 is apokaloopsis. It has to do with disclosure; the revealing of things unseen.

This certainly can apply to the work of the Holy Spirit, but in context of 1 Corinthians 14, I don’t think it necessarily has to. This form of revelation can also take place in the form of logical deduction. But, for purposes of defining Subordinate Revelation, it can only take place in the context of Spirit led revelation through God’s word and not logic.

I think that we all experience this regularly as we attend church services or Sunday school or Bible study. Someone has prepared to reveal the truth of scripture—hopefully by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, defining it as subordinate revelation. I know I experience this very personally as I study God’s word and then teach scripture to others.

Image Credits: niccolo2410, flickr.com