Knowledge Vs. Relationship!

Knowledge is good, but it can puff up. ( 1 Corinthians 8:1) It is possible to think we know more than we really do or to know, but not as we ought to know. ( 1 Corinthians 8:2)

There are so many areas in life where education has not always made a difference. How much more education does there need to be (except for subsequent generations) about the dangers of drinking and driving and yet it still happens and deaths still occur. More and more ill effects of smoking have been noted and the warnings on cigarette packages are now in larger print and still the habit is taken up and health is impacted. However, some have stopped smoking out of concern more for their children's health than for their own. It seems the consideration of the relationship provided more motivation than the knowledge of the health risks.

To some who questioned the authority of Jesus, he stated. . .
"(39) You SEARCH THE SCRIPTURES because you THINK that IN THEM YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE; and it is they that bear witness about me, (40) YET YOU REFUSE TO COME TO ME THAT YOU MAY HAVE LIFE." ( John 5:39-40 ESV)

Some may think they can study enough of the Scriptures to get their life on track. Certainly we need to continue reading, taking to heart, and applying the principles of God's Word to our life. However, without the relationship to Jesus we will not find LIFE. The Scriptures can lead us to Christ, and knowing them will help us clearly identify sin and direct us away from it, but the Scriptures cannot atone for sin. We must come to Jesus for the forgiveness we need and abide in that relationship. ( 1 John 1:7)

John wrote. . .
"(11) And this is the testimony, that God gave us ETERNAL LIFE, and THIS LIFE IS IN HIS SON. (12) WHOEVER HAS THE SON HAS LIFE; whoever does NOT HAVE THE SON OF GOD DOES NOT HAVE LIFE." ( 1 John 5:11-12 ESV)

Could it be any plainer than that? There may be many who know about Jesus and who may be able to quote a lot of Scripture. However, is there a relationship with the Lord? Have they been united in a relationship with Him. ( Galatians 3:27; Romans 6:3-4) The Scriptures -- both Old and New -- testify regarding Who Jesus is and the difference He has made for mankind. He gave His life to provide us with ABUNDANT LIFE ( John 10:10) and LIFE ETERNAL! Since He is the only access to the Father ( John 14:6) let us remain in an abiding relationship with Him. That will reveal we do truly know as we ought!

Have a great day EXPERIENCING LIFE IN JESUS!
Carl

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