General and Special Revelation: A Guide for Faith-Driven Leadership

Understanding how God reveals Himself is foundational to how we see the world, lead others, and live with purpose. In Understanding the Times, Myers and Noebel (2015) explain that God speaks to humanity in two primary ways: through general revelation and special revelation. General revelation is God’s voice woven into creation—seen in the natural world, human conscience, and the order of the universe. Special revelation, on the other hand, is God’s direct communication through Scripture and the life of Jesus Christ. Together, these two forms of revelation are essential for shaping a Christian worldview, especially in fields like nonprofit leadership where decisions must be rooted in service, compassion, and truth.

          In the nonprofit world, I see general revelation in the way people are drawn to help, to advocate for justice, and to care for the vulnerable—whether or not they realize the divine origin of that impulse. That instinct to serve reflects the image of God in us. Boris and Steuerle (2006) note how nonprofits often rise up to meet needs where other systems fall short, and this mirrors biblical stewardship: “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains” (Psalm 24:1, NASB, 1995). Romans 2:15 tells us that God’s law is written on the human heart, and Understanding the Times reminds us that even the logic and structure of fields like science and mathematics point to an intentional Creator (Myers & Noebel, 2015, pp. 185–186). In the same way, ethical and mission-driven nonprofit leadership reflects that divine order.

          But while general revelation tells us that God exists, it’s special revelation that tells us who He is. Through Scripture and the life of Christ, God reveals His love, His justice, and His desire for redemption. Philippians 2:3–5 gives us a blueprint for Christlike leadership: “Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility consider one another as more important than yourselves… Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus” (NASB, 1995). Jordan (2013) describes Scripture as God’s complete and final Word to humanity—our clearest guide for how to live, lead, and love well. Special revelation anchors us in truth. Without it, we would be left to guess at God’s character and calling.

          Both forms of revelation are vital for nonprofit leaders. General revelation awakens us to God’s presence through beauty, order, and moral conscience. Special revelation directs our steps, reveals God’s heart, and calls us into faithful action. As Christian leaders, we aren’t just called to build strategies—we’re called to build lives, communities, and organizations that reflect the character of Christ. And that begins with listening to the ways He speaks.

Boris, E. T., & Steuerle, C. E. (2006). Nonprofits & government: Collaboration & conflict (2nd ed.). Urban Institute Press.Jordan, A. (2013). The Bible – God’s final special revelation. The Evangelical Review of Theology and Politics, 1(2), 19–31.Myers, J., & Noebel, D. A. (2015). Understanding the times: A survey of competing worldviews. David C. Cook.The Holy Bible, New American Standard Bible. (1995). The Lockman Foundation.