Know Him
Our previous post on Perfection has identified the making of a perfect heart, a key characteristic of a true disciple of Jesus. We identified that it was something that the Lord alone accomplishes in us, as we surrender to him. Other posts redundantly stressed the importance of remaining in the word continuously, also portraying a genuine disciple.
If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth…. (John 8:31-32 KJV)
Let’s study the word “know”. Per google dictionary, I found two of the following definitions and was fondly surprised on how relevant they were to this post:
1. be aware of through observation, inquiry, or information
2. have developed a relationship with (someone) through meeting and spending time with them;
Notice the first definition gives us three variants of knowing: Observation, inquiry, or information
Often, when coming across this word in the Bible, we automatically assume the author is using the word as in gaining more information on.
Yet I believe that God truly desires us to “know” him as in through “observation”. Another similar term often used is experimentally. I’ve heard many Bible scholars argue that the Greek word used here for “know” is the same term describing “intimacy”, used in the context:
Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived..
You see, our spiritual journey does often begin with mere information and head knowledge of the Truth (God). And I believe it will remain that way for as long as one chooses to follow Christ at a distance. No commitments made, no strings attached, I do as I please type of mentality. Specifically, little to no consistency in remaining in the word.
However, once you become serious about pursuing Him, continually abiding in the word, you begin to know him on a deeper level. ( 2nd google definition of “know”)
It’s no longer added head knowledge. You experimentally know him. You recognize that your everyday experiences are directly relevant to the experiences of the individuals in the pages of scripture. The Holy Spirit (the instructor) begins to guide and speak to you, through their experiences as they relate to yours(see Have You Enrolled in Bible School post).
He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. (John 14:21 NKJV)
Other translations use the words “I will reveal myself” or “show myself” to them. You begin to experience his manifest presence.
Writing this post, I was reminded of the disciples’ experience when Christ physically revealed himself to them, shortly after his resurrection. The Bible reports they were terrified and afraid. He said to them don’t be afraid ..
Look at My hands and My feet. It is I Myself. Touch Me and see…(Luke 24:39 BSB)
Likewise, he wants to reveal himself to our spirit, in the heart. Inviting us to experience him. Develop an intimate relationship with him, through a continual abiding in the word.
I remember sharing my first such experiences with someone. Although it all seemed like foreign language to them at first, they decided to give it a try. A quiet time of devotion, seeking and abiding in the word. I remember the surprise and Godly fear I heard in their voice when they eagerly reported their experience. A sure message was received, directly speaking to the circumstance they were in.
Pastor Hans Waldvogel, once challenged his young listeners, I dare you, make a commitment to spent at least one hour daily, prayerfully in the word. You will be surprised.
Could you not watch with Me one hour? (Matt. 26:40 NKJV)
“God is seeking those who hear His call to a life of worship. Those who heed are those who will walk in His presence. They will know Him intimately as He will manifest Himself to them.”
―
Supporting text
that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent…(John 17:3 KJV)
…I know my own sheep, and they know me…(John 10:14)
Comments
Post a Comment