And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).
Jesus used the word “ginosko” for “know” in the scripture above, making it clear to us that the revelation knowledge of the truth that you have is what makes you free. However, revelation without involvement or participation can lead to frustration. 1 Timothy 4:3 talks about those who “...believe and know the truth.” Then, we read in our opening verse, “Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” These two portions of Scripture actually describe two different groups of people.
John 8:32 talks about those who know the truth and, as a result, have become free. Whereas, in 1Timothy 4:3 the Apostle Paul is referring to those who have gone beyond merely knowing the truth and becoming free, to having a higher revelation concerning the truth that they’ve come to know. He uses the Greek word “Epiginosko” for “know” in that verse. This is knowledge that unites the one who knows with what he knows.
The Apostle Paul’s opening address to the brethren at Colosse in Colossians 1:6 gives us a clearer picture. It talks about the Gospel bringing forth fruit in them since the day they heard of it, and “…knew the grace of God in truth.” That word “knew,” again, is “epiginosko”; it’s the kind of knowledge that unites the knower and what he knows. It’s knowledge with involvement.
Here’s where some folks have missed it, and become frustrated, in spite of all that they seem to know. They’ve been Christians a long time, and can tell you about all the various “revivals” and “moves of the Spirit” that have taken place since the history of the Church. However, their lives don’t show that they know anything. Such folks need to have a relationship with the truth; they need to have revelation with involvement—a union with the truth; that’s what will produce greater results in your life.
PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for granting me insights and understanding of your Word which is truth. The more I know you, the more I want to know and love you. Thank you for the privilege of fellowship with you; a fellowship that guarantees my victory, success and prosperity every day of my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY
1 Timothy 4:1-5
Living Bible (TLB)
4 But the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some in the church will turn away from Christ and become eager followers of teachers with devil-inspired ideas. 2 These teachers will tell lies with straight faces and do it so often that their consciences won’t even bother them.
3 They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat meat, even though God gave these things to well-taught Christians to enjoy and be thankful for. 4 For everything God made is good, and we may eat it gladly if we are thankful for it, 5 and if we ask God to bless it, for it is made good by the Word of God and prayer.
Galatians 5:1
Living Bible (TLB)
5 So Christ has made us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get all tied up again in the chains of slavery to Jewish laws and ceremonies.
DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 11:37-54 Judges 5-6
2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 8:20-28 Psalm 112-113
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