For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in law, these, having not the law are law unto themselves:

Which show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing on another;

In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

- Romans 2:14-16

Each of these two forms includes two items. These forms and aspects of God's revelation are portrayed in the following diagram:

What is meant by each of these forms and aspects of God's revelation?

God's general (or natural) revelation is given by God to all people on earth - it is "general". It reveals to all that there is a God. God's general revelation includes:

1. Man's conscience (innate or internal knowledge)

2. God's creation (aquired or external knowledge)

All people are born with a conscience. God has planted within each person an inborn knowledge that there is a supreme being - a god - a basic concept of "right" and "wrong". Each person knows that he is responsible and accountable to do the right and avoid the wrong.

This is true not only of people raised in Christian homes or societies, but also of heathen persons. All have a conscience.