Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Origin Gnosis, derived from the Greek word "γνῶσις," means "knowledge" or "understanding." In the context of early Christianity, it refers to a special, esoteric knowledge of spiritual truths. This concept became particularly significant in the development of Gnosticism, a diverse set of religious movements in the early Christian era that emphasized personal spiritual knowledge over orthodox teachings and institutions. Biblical Context While the term "gnosis" itself is not frequently used in the New Testament, the concept of knowledge is prevalent. The Apostle Paul often addresses the issue of knowledge in his epistles, sometimes warning against a false or misguided understanding. For instance, in 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 , Paul writes, "Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The one who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. But the one who loves God is known by God." Here, Paul contrasts knowledge with love, emphasizing that true understanding is rooted in love and humility. Gnosticism and Early Christianity Gnosticism emerged as a significant challenge to early Christian orthodoxy. Gnostic beliefs often included the idea that the material world is inherently evil and that salvation comes through acquiring secret knowledge. This stood in contrast to the Christian teaching of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and the goodness of God's creation. The Apostle John addresses similar issues in his epistles, warning against false teachings and emphasizing the importance of adhering to the truth of the Gospel. In 1 John 4:1-3 , he writes, "Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God." The Role of Knowledge in Christian Life In the New Testament, knowledge is often portrayed as a gift from God, meant to be used for the edification of the church and the glorification of God. In Colossians 1:9-10 , Paul prays for the believers, saying, "For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God." Here, knowledge is linked with spiritual wisdom and understanding, leading to a life that pleases God. Warnings Against False Knowledge The New Testament contains several warnings against false knowledge and teachings that deviate from the Gospel. In 1 Timothy 6:20-21 , Paul advises Timothy, "O Timothy, guard the deposit entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called 'knowledge,' which some have professed and thus swerved away from the faith." This passage highlights the danger of being led astray by teachings that claim to offer superior knowledge but ultimately lead away from the truth of Christ. Conclusion While the pursuit of knowledge is encouraged in the Christian faith, it is always to be grounded in the truth of Scripture and the love of God. True gnosis, from a biblical perspective, is not about secret or esoteric wisdom but about knowing God through Jesus Christ and living according to His will. Topical Bible Verses 1 John 4:1Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Topicalbible.org John 14:6 Revelation 20:1-3 1 John 4:3 Greek 1108. gnosis -- a knowing, knowledge ... 1107, 1108. gnosis. 1109 . ... (gnoseos) -- 12 Occurrences. (gnosin) -- 7 Occurrences. (gnosis) -- 3 Occurrences. 1107, 1108. gnosis. 1109 . Strong's Numbers //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1108.htm - 7k 56. agnosia -- ignorance Library The Knowledge which Comes through Faith the Surest of All. The Use of Philosophy to the Gnostic. You See How He Represents These Opinions as Things which are Held ... Philosophy is Knowledge Given by God. Causes of Corruption Chiefly Intentional. Steps to Perfection. The Gnostics, the Montanists, and the Manichaeans. The Setting Klementos Pros Korinthious B Now, with Respect to Paradise, it is not Called a Cosmos. ... Resources What is Christian Gnosticism? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the definition of the term Gnostic? | GotQuestions.org What is the Demiurge? | GotQuestions.org Gnosticism: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |