What steps can we take to deepen our understanding of God's nature? Setting the scene: Paul in Athens “For as I was passing through and examining the objects of your worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Therefore what you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you.” (Acts 17:23) The Athenians admitted they didn’t truly know the God who made them. Paul’s response shows that God wants to replace vague guesses with clear revelation. The same movement—from ignorance to intimate knowledge—guides every believer who longs to grasp God’s nature. Step 1 – Acknowledge our need for revealed truth • Humility opens the door. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10). • Confess any “unknown God” corners in your heart where assumptions have replaced Scripture. Step 2 – Immerse ourselves in God’s Word • “All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching” (2 Timothy 3:16). Daily reading moves us from second-hand opinions to first-hand knowledge. • Track what God says about Himself—His holiness (Isaiah 6:3), love (1 John 4:8), justice (Deuteronomy 32:4), mercy (Exodus 34:6). Step 3 – Invite the Spirit’s illumination • Paul prays “that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ… may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation” (Ephesians 1:17). • Ask the Spirit to connect the text to your heart, turning information into transformation. Step 4 – Worship with understanding • Jesus calls for worship “in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). True worship sharpens rather than dulls doctrine. • Sing songs rich in biblical attributes—His sovereignty, faithfulness, and glory—so your affections align with reality. Step 5 – Stay in fellowship with grounded believers • “Let us consider how to spur one another on” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Discussion, teaching, and accountability refine our view of God. • Seek mentors who model reverence and obedience; imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7). Step 6 – Study God’s works in creation and providence • “Since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities… have been clearly seen” (Romans 1:20). Observe nature as a living commentary on His power and wisdom. • Trace His faithfulness in your own story; personal testimonies reinforce scriptural claims. Step 7 – Respond in obedience • “Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me” (John 14:21). Obedience turns knowledge into knowing. • Each step of surrendered action becomes another lens clarifying His character. Step 8 – Persist with lifelong pursuit • Eternal life is “to know You, the only true God” (John 17:3). Knowing God is not a box to check but a horizon that keeps expanding. • Revisit Acts 17:23 often; let Paul’s proclamation remind you that the once-unknown God now invites you to know Him fully and forever. |
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