In today's message, we explored the profound relationship between knowledge and faith, emphasizing the necessity of knowledge in the life of a disciple. We began by reflecting on the poetry of Gerard Manley Hopkins, which beautifully illustrates the presence of God in the world and the transformative power of Christ in our lives. This sets the stage for understanding how knowledge plays a crucial role in our spiritual journey.
Knowledge is often misunderstood or undervalued in the context of faith. Many people perceive faith as a leap into the unknown, but biblical faith is always grounded in knowledge. The prophet Hosea reminds us that "my people perish for lack of knowledge," highlighting the importance of understanding in our spiritual lives. Knowledge and faith are not opposing forces; rather, they complement each other. Faith is not a blind leap but a step taken with the assurance of what we know about God and His promises.
We discussed the distinction between knowledge, belief, commitment, and profession. Knowledge provides the foundation for belief, which in turn informs our commitment and profession of faith. Without knowledge, our beliefs can be ungrounded and our commitments wavering. As disciples, we are called to act on the basis of what we know, and through our actions, our faith and knowledge grow.
The process of making disciples involves imparting knowledge of Christ and His teachings. This requires us to have a deep understanding of the gospel and to communicate it effectively. Discipleship is not merely about professing faith but about living it out through informed action. It is about being with Jesus, learning to be like Him, and arranging our lives to reflect His teachings.
In conclusion, knowledge is essential for spiritual growth and discipleship. It empowers us to act with confidence and to guide others in their journey of faith. As we seek to make disciples, let us prioritize knowledge, ensuring that our faith is rooted in a deep understanding of God's truth.
Key Takeaways
- 1. The Interplay of Knowledge and Faith: Faith is not a blind leap but is deeply rooted in knowledge. Biblical faith is always in an environment of knowledge, as seen in the lives of figures like Abraham and Job, who acted on the basis of their understanding of God. [07:42]
- 2. The Role of Knowledge in Discipleship: Knowledge is foundational for making disciples. It provides the right and responsibility to act, direct action, and teach. Without knowledge, our beliefs and commitments can be unstable. [19:32]
- 3. Understanding Belief and Profession: Belief is relative and can be ungrounded, while knowledge is based on truth and evidence. Profession without belief or knowledge can lead to a superficial faith that lacks depth and commitment. [24:55]
- 4. The Importance of Spiritual Formation: Discipleship involves a commitment to spiritual formation, which is a communal process. It requires a vision of the gospel that motivates us to be with Jesus and learn to be like Him. [41:38]
- 5. Teaching Obedience to Christ's Teachings: To teach others to follow Jesus, they must first be disciples. This involves understanding the gospel, making a commitment, and arranging one's life to align with Jesus' teachings. [50:41]
** [50:41]
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