Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionIn the Christian tradition, knowledge is often regarded as a divine gift bestowed by God upon humanity. It is a multifaceted concept that encompasses understanding, wisdom, and discernment, all of which are essential for living a life that is pleasing to God. The Bible presents knowledge as both a practical and spiritual asset, integral to the believer's journey of faith. Biblical Foundation The Bible frequently emphasizes the importance of knowledge, particularly in the context of knowing God and His will. Proverbs 1:7 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." This verse underscores the foundational role of reverence for God in acquiring true knowledge. It is not merely intellectual but deeply spiritual, rooted in a relationship with the Creator. Knowledge as a Gift from God In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul highlights knowledge as a spiritual gift. In 1 Corinthians 12:8 , he writes, "To one there is given through the Spirit the message of wisdom, to another the message of knowledge by the same Spirit." Here, knowledge is portrayed as a gift of the Holy Spirit, intended for the edification of the church. It is a divine endowment that enables believers to understand and apply God's truths in their lives. The Role of Knowledge in Spiritual Growth Knowledge is essential for spiritual growth and maturity. In 2 Peter 1:5-6 , believers are encouraged to "make every effort to add to your faith virtue; and to virtue, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness." This passage illustrates the progressive nature of spiritual development, with knowledge serving as a critical component in the believer's pursuit of godliness. Knowledge and Discernment The Bible also associates knowledge with discernment, the ability to distinguish between truth and falsehood. In Philippians 1:9-10 , Paul prays, "And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless for the day of Christ." Knowledge, coupled with love, equips believers to make wise decisions and live lives that honor God. Warnings Against Misuse of Knowledge While knowledge is a divine gift, the Bible warns against its misuse. In 1 Corinthians 8:1 , Paul cautions, "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." This warning highlights the potential for knowledge to lead to pride if not tempered by love and humility. Believers are reminded that knowledge should be used to serve others and glorify God, rather than to elevate oneself. Conclusion In summary, knowledge is a divine gift that plays a vital role in the life of a believer. It is foundational to understanding God's will, essential for spiritual growth, and crucial for discernment. However, it must be exercised with humility and love to fulfill its God-given purpose. Nave's Topical Index 1 Corinthians 12:8For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; Nave's Topical Index Greek 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness ... "Faith is always a response to a divine revelation" (WH ... faith is spiritual, the gift of God . ... what is ; therefore, we hold faith to be the knowledge of God's ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4102.htm - 18k Library Whether the Gift of Knowledge is About Divine Things? The Knowledge of God a Divine Gift, According to the Philosophers. "Though we be Highly Lifted up into Contemplation by the Special ... The Gift and the Giver To My Fellow Presbyter Timothy. Dionysius the Presbyter. The Stromata, or Miscellanies Strength and Indwelling. The Confession of the Society of Friends, Commonly Called Quakers. ... Wisdom and Revelation. Objection to the Number of Extracts from Philosophical Writings in ... Resources What does the Bible say about knowledge? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is middle knowledge? | GotQuestions.org What is wisdom? What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge? | GotQuestions.org Knowledge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Knowledge of God More than Burnt offering Knowledge of More Value than Gold Knowledge: "Now we Know in Part" Knowledge: The Earth Shall be Full of Knowledge: The Fear (Reverence) of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge: The Priest's Lips should Keep Knowledge: Those Who Reject are Destroyed Related Terms |
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