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Knowledge - Meaning of the word

The Greek word is γνπσις (gnōsis) which means "a seeking to know, inquiry, investigation", and it is used in the New Testament especially for the knowledge of spiritual truth. The definition in English is: "the act, fact, or state of knowing" (Webster). Matthew Henry comments on the passage: "Every believer must labor after the knowledge and wisdom that are profitable to direct, both as to the proper method and order wherein all Christian duties are to be performed and as to the way and manner of performing them."

Knowledge - A wrong concept

Knowledge tends to puff up, not to build up, unless it is tempered by love (1 Corinthians 8:1-3; 13:2). Misusing knowledge has the potential to harm the work of God in other people (1 Corinthians 8:7-11). Certain types of knowledge can lead people away from God (1 Timothy 6:20-21).

Knowledge - The most important thing

We can apply a common saying to the biblical concept of knowledge: "It’s not what you know, it’s Who you know." True knowledge for the believer is the knowledge of God; knowing the Lord must be our only boast (Jeremiah 9:23,24). Paul was committed to growing in his knowledge of Christ (Philippians 3:7-11). We too must aim to deepen our knowledge of the Lord (2 Peter 3:18). We are called to spread the knowledge of God everywhere (2 Corinthians 2:14), fighting every obstacle that keeps people from knowing God (2 Corinthians 10:5).

Knowledge - A practical thing

Zeal without knowledge leads astray (Proverbs 19:2; Romans 10:2). Christian knowledge is based on facts and the Scriptures, not on philosophical speculation (Luke 1:1-4; 2 Peter 1:16; 2 Timothy 3:14-17). We must know the will of God through experience, allowing our minds to be transformed (Romans 12:2). Knowledge must lead to conscious and consistent behavior in the church (Romans 15:14) and in the family (1 Peter 3:7 - the phrase translated "with respect" in the NIV literally means "according to knowledge"). Knowledge also has a beneficial effect on manual tasks (Exodus 31:1-6; 35:30-35).

Knowledge - Requires commitment

In order to serve the Lord, as all believers are called to do, we must study the Word of God (2 Timothy 2:15 AMP). The knowledge we need in the Lord’s service is not abstract or arid, but practical and sound, to avoid the errors of the scribes that Jesus pointed out (Matthew 23:1-4). To gain knowledge of the truth, it is necessary to remain in the Word (John 8:31,32). When we have knowledge of God and His will, we should make the commitment to act accordingly, no matter what the cost (Daniel 11:32).

Biblical examples of knowledge

Solomon - the man who knew everything

Solomon received wisdom from God (1 Kings 4:29-34). However, he did not follow his own advice - he did not live "according to knowledge" (1 Kings 11:1-10).

Ezra - the man ready to learn and act

Ezra serves as a positive example for us because he was committed not only to studying the Word, but also to observing it (Ezra 7:10). He used his personal knowledge to make the law known to others (Ezra 7:25). Despite the infidelity of the exiles, he persevered in ensuring that the law was followed (Ezra 10:1-4,10-12).