What Is God Trying to Reveal About Himself?
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.”
— John 17:3 (KJV)
Most of us come to the Bible with questions about our own lives—seeking guidance, comfort, or purpose. But what if the most important question is not, “What does this say about me?” but “What is God revealing about Himself?” Scripture is not primarily a mirror for self-discovery, but a window into the heart and character of the living God. The more we know Him, the more everything else comes into focus—including who we are and how we live.
Scripture’s Central Aim: Knowing God, Not Just Knowing About Him
From Genesis to Revelation, the Bible is God’s self-revelation. It is not a collection of abstract truths or moral lessons, but a living testimony of who God is—His character, His purposes, and His ways. Jesus Himself declared that eternal life is found in knowing God (John 17:3). This means the greatest purpose of Scripture is not simply to instruct us, but to draw us into relationship with the One who made us.
God Reveals Himself as Creator, Holy, Loving, Faithful, Just, and Merciful
The opening words of Genesis—”In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth” (Genesis 1:1)—immediately establish God as Creator. Everything that exists flows from His will and power. He is not part of creation, but stands above it, sustaining and ruling over all. This truth humbles us: life is not ultimately about us, but about the One to whom we belong.
Scripture also reveals God’s holiness. Isaiah’s vision of angels crying, “Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts” (Isaiah 6:3) reminds us that God is utterly pure and set apart from sin. His holiness exposes the seriousness of sin and calls us to reverence and humility. Yet, God’s love is just as central. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son” (John 3:16). God’s love is not passive; it is active, pursuing, forgiving, and redeeming—most powerfully displayed in Christ’s sacrifice.
Throughout history, God’s faithfulness is unwavering. He kept His promises to Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Israel, culminating in the coming of the Messiah. Paul affirms, “God is faithful” (1 Corinthians 1:9). Even when people fail, God remains true to His word, providing stability and hope.
God’s justice assures us that evil will not have the final word. He is the perfect Judge, ensuring that righteousness triumphs and that history moves toward restoration. Yet, His justice is always balanced by mercy. “It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed” (Lamentations 3:22). God delights to show compassion to the undeserving, welcoming repentant sinners and restoring broken lives.
The Fullness of God’s Revelation in Jesus Christ
All of God’s attributes—His holiness, love, mercy, justice, faithfulness—are made visible in Jesus. When Philip asked to see the Father, Jesus replied, “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father” (John 14:9). If you want to know what God is like, look at Christ. His compassion, truth, and sacrifice are the clearest revelation of God’s heart. Everything Scripture reveals about God comes into focus in the person of Jesus.
Moses’ Prayer and the Invitation to Know God Personally
Moses once prayed, “I beseech thee, shew me thy glory” (Exodus 33:18). God answered by revealing His character—His goodness, mercy, compassion, and faithfulness. The greatest gift God gives is not merely blessings or answers, but Himself. The deepest purpose of Scripture is to help us know God more fully, to seek His presence above all else.
Abiding in Christ: The Transforming Purpose of Revelation
The Bible’s ultimate revelation is not a list of doctrines or rules, but God Himself—most fully in His Son. Jesus is “the visible image of the invisible God” (Colossians 1:15). As we know Christ, we know the Father. The goal of Bible study is not just information, but transformation—abiding in Christ, growing in truth, and being conformed to His likeness. Every page of Scripture invites us to trust, love, and worship the God who reveals Himself.
Responding to God’s Self-Revelation
God is not distant or hidden. He is continually revealing Himself—Creator, holy, loving, faithful, just, merciful, and most fully in Jesus Christ. The ultimate purpose of the Bible is not simply to teach us about life, but to draw us into relationship with the God who gives life. As you open Scripture, ask not only, “What does this mean for me?” but “What is God showing me about Himself?” Let this pursuit shape your prayers, your study, and your life, so that you may know Him, abide in Him, and bear fruit that lasts.
