Knowledge of Jesus

In 2 Peter 1:5-7, Peter lists the characteristics of a Christian that has become known as the Christian Graces. All these attributes are products of spiritual growth gained through knowledge. The definition of the word of the word knowledge is "seeking to know." As Christians, we must seek to know Jesus.

Our knowledge must be personal. We can not know Christ only through others. Paul demonstrates the personal knowledge of Jesus in Philippians 3:8-11. Our knowledge must be intelligent. We are to know Christ through evidence (Hebrews 11:1) and make intelligent and informed decisions about our faith. Our knowledge must be affectionate. To know Christ is to obey Him (1 John 2:3-5). To obey Christ is to love Him (John 14:15). Without love, knowledge is nothing (1 Corinthians 13:2).

Knowledge can be satisfying. Knowledge of Christ produces peace that is satisfying above all things (Philippians 4:6-8). The knowledge of Christ fills like no other (John 6:35). Knowledge can be exciting. The more we learn of Christ, the more wonderful and awesome He is to us. We are complete in Him (Colossians 2:9-10). Knowledge provides us with all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:3).

Growing in the knowledge of Christ is essential. The Lord commands us to grow in the knowledge of Christ (2 Peter 3:18). Hosea the prophet stated in Hosea 4:6, that God’s people were destroyed for a lack of knowledge. Knowledge is demonstrated by obedience. Christ stated that he came from heaven to do the will of His Father in heaven (John 6:38). His demonstration of this obedience was seen at the cross (Philippians 2:6-8). Knowledge is to be practically applied. Through knowledge we can overcome temptation (Matthew 4:1-11). We use knowledge to teach others the good news of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20). Through knowledge we can strengthen our relationships (Hebrews 3:13). As James states, "… be doers of the word and not hearers only." (James 1:22)

Knowledge of Christ will give us Great Energy for God. We can be more zealous and confident when it comes to personal evangelism. Knowledge of Christ will give us Great Thoughts of God. We can focus our minds on things pure and holy (Philippians 4:8, Colossians 3:1-2). Knowledge of Christ will give us Great Boldness for God. We, like the Apostles of the first century, can declare the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27). Knowledge of Christ will give us Great Contentment in God. Like Paul, we can learn to be content in life (Philippians 4:10-12).

Do we know Christ like we should? Our hope and prayer is that we will commit to knowing Christ better through His Word.

~ Greg Neill