Christian Character – Knowledge, part IV God’s truth is absolute. It bears no additions, no subtractions. False interpretation and misguided opinions are no excuse for failing to follow the truth. Jesus said, “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). He also said that God’s word is truth, ultimate spiritual… Continue Reading
Christian Character – Knowledge, part III Our pursuit of knowledge, as assigned by Peter, certainly includes knowledge of the Bible. This requires learning and understanding the inspired Scriptures. If we are to love God with our mind, we will love the study of his word (Matt. 22:37-38). How wonderful that God chose to reveal himself and… Continue Reading
Christian Character – Knowledge, part II Our God wishes to be known and he has abundantly revealed himself in his creation (Psa. 19:1-6). Those who stubbornly say there is no God are foolish (Psa. 14:1). Paul tells us that “what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to… Continue Reading
Christian Character – Knowledge, part I As Peter continues his appeal that we work steadily at Christian character, he writes: “Make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge” (2 Pet. 1:5). Gnosis is the word translated knowledge in this text and quite a few additional New Testament passages. The word has… Continue Reading
Christian Character – Goodness, part V Striving for goodness is not a quest for sinless perfection. That we shall never accomplish. But God demands that we reach for moral excellence. James the brother of Jesus tells us to quit arguing with God and get on with the process, “for man’s anger does not bring about the… Continue Reading
Christian Character – Goodness, part IV Remember that goodness is moral excellence. Striving to be more like God. A look at the word “godliness” is to follow in a few weeks, but goodness actually has more to do with becoming like the Lord. Though Jesus made the statement that only God is truly good (Matt. 19:17),… Continue Reading
