A question that has perplexed humans throughout the ages is whether we have the ability to reach God. The testimony of Scripture and eminent theologians attest that individuals have limited knowledge of God through general revelation in the natural world. General revelation can provide valid knowledge of the existence of a God, which aids in the acceptance of special revelation. General revelation is an individual's ability to gain knowledge of God through his presence in the world. The knowledge we can gain through general revelation is limited. It does not bring salvation and says very little about the character of God, but it can bring us knowledge of God's existence. We are able to gain this knowledge of him because he is a Creator who interacts with his creation. The psalmist sings of God's presence in the world and Paul writes: "For since the creation of the world the invisible qualities of God, his eternal power and his divine nature, have been clearly seen and understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse" (Romans 1:20 NIV). He has ordered things so that there is “a voice of his own in his works” (Edwards, MacGrath, 116). God designed his creation so that it can be seen in different places by different people. For those interested in the natural world, the study of science can lead people to ask questions about the existence of God. For example, a person studying the Big Bang theory will wonder what existed before the Big Bang began explosion (Patterson Lecture). While a scientist does not automatically assume that there is a God, he or she will begin to think about the origin and order of the universe, and these are important questions for developing a belief in God. Other... middle of paper... problems, worth to say that it is limited and cannot bring salvation. There are valid concerns that need to be taken into consideration, such as adding false beliefs to the truth derived from nature and sinful human nature. But just because a doctrine has some problems doesn't mean it should be completely discredited. Understanding that God exists through general revelation is an important foundation for special revelation. For this reason, the doctrine of general revelation has a practical application within the church. It makes evangelism and missions imperative and helps reach people for Christ. Understanding how an individual came to know that God exists is a starting point for evangelism. General revelation can awaken consciousness and bring an individual to awareness of God, which serves as the foundation for God's special revelation to that individual.