Spiritual Knowledge
Spiritual Knowledge5
Epistle 295
By George Fox0DEU 8:3ISA 40:6LUK 15:16JHN 1:1George Fox emphasizes the importance of maintaining a relationship with the Holy Spirit rather than relying solely on knowledge and familiarity that can lead to spiritual danger. He warns that while initial conviction is safe under God's judgment, familiarity without the Spirit can lead to a withering faith, akin to grass that fades away. True knowledge comes from the eternal Word of God, which sustains us spiritually, contrasting with the temporary nature of worldly knowledge. Fox encourages believers to seek the divine nourishment that comes from God’s Word, which is essential for spiritual life.
Knowing the Spirit
By Andrew Murray0JHN 14:17JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:14ROM 8:261CO 3:162CO 3:18GAL 5:16EPH 1:171JN 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the significance of truly knowing the Holy Spirit, who is the Spirit of Truth and dwells within believers. He explains that spiritual knowledge is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's grace, and that understanding the Spirit's presence and work is crucial for a vibrant faith. Murray encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit through prayer, obedience, and studying the Word of God, asserting that true knowledge of the Spirit leads to assurance and transformation. He highlights that the Spirit's indwelling is evidenced by a life of faith and obedience, and that knowing the Spirit is foundational for knowing Christ and the Father. Ultimately, Murray calls for a complete surrender to the Holy Spirit to fully experience His guidance and power in our lives.
In Relation to His Knowledge
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 2:16T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound relationship between knowledge and power in the context of God's wisdom, contrasting the deceptive allure of worldly knowledge with the true spiritual knowledge embodied in Christ. He explains that while Adam and Eve sought knowledge to gain power, it ultimately led to their downfall, whereas Christ's knowledge, rooted in divine understanding, grants true authority and significance. Sparks urges believers to pursue a deep, personal knowledge of God, which comes through the Cross and leads to spiritual maturity and true significance in the universe. He highlights that this journey may involve suffering and trials, but it is essential for becoming men and women of God who reflect Christ's significance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a commitment to knowing the Lord above all else, as this knowledge is the foundation of true power and authority.
The Greatness of Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0EPH 4:8T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the immeasurable greatness of Christ in his sermon 'The Greatness of Christ', drawing from Ephesians 4:8-10. He reflects on the Apostle Paul's profound spiritual knowledge, which was revealed through his experiences and revelations of Christ, leading to a deep understanding of Christ's role in filling all things. Sparks highlights that this understanding of Christ's greatness is essential for believers to overcome their troubles and live in the fullness of grace. He urges the church to grasp the expansive nature of Christ, which transcends time and space, and to recognize their identity as part of His body, the church, which complements His greatness.
Spiritual Knowledge
By J.C. Ryle0JHN 7:17J.C. Ryle emphasizes that honest obedience to God's will is essential for gaining clear spiritual knowledge, as Jesus teaches that those willing to do God's will will understand His doctrine. He warns against waiting for intellectual clarity before committing to faith, asserting that knowledge is acquired through humble obedience. Ryle also highlights the danger of forming hasty judgments based on appearances, using the example of the Jews who condemned Jesus for healing on the Sabbath while practicing circumcision on the same day. He encourages believers to live up to the light they have, as neglecting this leads to spiritual darkness. Ultimately, Ryle calls for discernment in judgment, reminding us that true understanding often lies beneath the surface.