THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text:
Hosea 4:6 (NKJV)
"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children."
Supporting Texts:
1. Proverbs 9:10
2. Jeremiah 9:23-24
3. Romans 11:33
4. 2 Peter 3:18
5. Isaiah 55:8-9
6. Colossians 1:9-10
INTRODUCTION:
The knowledge of God is not just about knowing facts or information about Him, but it involves having a deep, personal relationship with Him. This knowledge transforms lives, directs our steps, and empowers us to live in accordance with His will. In today's sermon, we will delve into what it means to truly know God, the benefits of this knowledge, and the consequences of lacking it. Understanding the knowledge of God is crucial for spiritual growth and living a victorious Christian life.
1. THE FOUNDATION OF KNOWLEDGE – FEAR OF THE LORD
Proverbs 9:10
"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
a) The knowledge of God begins with a reverent fear of Him, acknowledging His holiness and majesty.
b) Fear of the Lord is not a paralyzing fear but a deep respect that draws us closer to God, recognizing our need for Him.
c) This fear results in wisdom, which is crucial for navigating the complexities of life (Psalm 111:10).
d) Without this foundational fear, the knowledge of God remains incomplete, as it is the starting point for true understanding.
e) Reverent fear impacts the believer's life by guiding them to make godly choices that align with His purposes.
Biblical Example: King Solomon, who asked for wisdom from God, demonstrated the importance of fearing God as the foundation for knowledge (1 Kings 3:9-12).
2. KNOWING GOD THROUGH HIS WORD
Jeremiah 9:23-24
"Thus says the Lord: 'Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, let not the mighty man glory in his might, nor let the rich man glory in his riches; but let him who glories glory in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,' says the Lord."
a) God's Word is the primary means by which He reveals Himself to us, and through it, we gain a deeper understanding of His character.
b) The Bible shows us God's attributes—His love, mercy, justice, and righteousness—allowing us to know Him more intimately.
c) Regular study of the Word strengthens our relationship with God and equips us to live according to His will (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
d) Knowing God through His Word leads to spiritual maturity, enabling believers to discern truth from error.
e) It impacts our daily decisions, relationships, and worldview, aligning them with God's standards.
Biblical Example: Jesus, in His time of temptation, demonstrated the power of knowing and applying God's Word (Matthew 4:1-11).
3. THE DEPTH OF GOD'S KNOWLEDGE – BEYOND HUMAN UNDERSTANDING
Romans 11:33
"Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!"
a) God's knowledge is infinite, and His ways are far beyond human comprehension (Isaiah 55:8-9).
b) While we cannot fully grasp God's ways, we are called to trust in His wisdom and sovereignty.
c) This deep knowledge reminds believers that God is always working for their good, even when they don't understand the details (Romans 8:28).
d) The acknowledgment of God's infinite wisdom leads to a deeper dependence on Him in times of uncertainty.
e) It impacts believers by cultivating humility, reverence, and trust in God's plans.
Biblical Example: Job, though he did not understand his suffering, came to know God more deeply through it, acknowledging God's wisdom (Job 42:1-6).
4. GROWING IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
2 Peter 3:18
"But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen."
a) The knowledge of God is not static but grows as believers walk with Him through prayer, worship, and obedience.
b) Spiritual growth involves an increasing knowledge of God's nature, His will, and His purpose for our lives (Colossians 1:9-10).
c) Growth in the knowledge of God equips believers to overcome challenges, resist temptation, and fulfill their calling.
d) It is important to pursue this growth diligently, through both personal and corporate means such as Bible study, prayer, and fellowship.
e) As believers grow in the knowledge of God, they reflect more of His character, becoming more Christ-like in their words, actions, and attitudes.
Biblical Example: The apostle Paul consistently sought to know God more, pressing toward the goal of a deeper relationship with Christ (Philippians 3:10-14).
5. THE CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD
Hosea 4:6
"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me; because you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children."
a) Rejecting the knowledge of God leads to spiritual destruction, as it disconnects believers from the source of life and wisdom.
b) When God's knowledge is neglected, people are prone to fall into sin, idolatry, and deception (Romans 1:28-32).
c) Lack of knowledge leads to moral decay, loss of purpose, and spiritual blindness, hindering believers from experiencing God's fullness.
d) It also impacts future generations, as they inherit the consequences of rejecting God's truth (Exodus 20:5-6).
e) Rejecting God's knowledge diminishes the believer's ability to discern God's voice and walk in His ways, leaving them vulnerable to the enemy.
Biblical Example: The Israelites, during the time of the judges, often turned away from God due to a lack of knowledge, resulting in cycles of oppression and defeat (Judges 2:10-15).
CONCLUSION:
The knowledge of God is essential for every believer. It serves as the foundation for wisdom, guides our actions, and helps us navigate life's challenges. True knowledge of God comes through a relationship with Him, grounded in His Word, and cultivated through a life of worship and obedience. As we grow in the knowledge of God, we become more like Him and are empowered to live victoriously in this world.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, give me a deeper revelation of Your knowledge and help me grow in understanding Your ways.
2. Father, grant me the fear of the Lord, that I may walk in wisdom and understanding.
3. Lord, help me to know You more intimately through Your Word, and guide me by Your truth.
4. O God, increase my trust in Your infinite wisdom, even when I don’t understand Your ways.
5. Father, help me to grow in the knowledge of Your will and purpose for my life.
6. Lord, let my heart always seek after You, desiring to know You more every day.
7. O God, open my eyes to any areas where I have rejected Your knowledge, and lead me to repentance.
8. Father, strengthen me to live in the light of Your Word, rejecting the ways of ignorance and deception.
9. Lord, give me grace to pursue spiritual growth, that I may reflect Your character more and more.
10. Father, let the knowledge of You fill my heart, mind, and soul, leading me to a deeper relationship with You.
