Understanding the Difference through John 7:37-38 and Colossians 2:6-15
Imagine you’ve read everything there is to know about swimming. You know every technique, every safety rule, and every world record. But unless you actually jump into the pool, you don’t really know what it’s like to swim—how the water feels, how your body moves, or the joy of floating. In the same way, having knowledge of God isn’t the same as actually knowing Him.
The Difference Explained
Many people know facts about God. Maybe they grew up in church or have read the Bible. But the Bible teaches that just knowing about God isn’t enough. There’s a difference between knowing about someone and having a relationship with them.
The Lesson from John 7:37-38
During the Festival of Tabernacles—a time when people celebrated God’s provision with special water ceremonies—Jesus stood up and said, “If anyone is thirsty, let them come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”
What did Jesus mean? He was using the water ceremony as a picture. Just as the people needed water to live, Jesus says we need something only He can give—for our hearts and souls. That “living water” is the Holy Spirit, God’s presence living inside those who trust in Jesus.
So, coming to Jesus isn’t just knowing who He is or what He did. It’s accepting His invitation—personally reaching out to Him, asking Him to fill your spiritual thirst, and trusting that He will.
What Does “Living Water” Mean?
The “living water” is a way of saying that the Holy Spirit will come and live inside believers. The Spirit helps, guides, comforts, and gives real, lasting joy and peace. It’s a daily relationship—not just a set of facts or rituals.
Colossians 2:6-15: Being Rooted, Built Up, and Overflowing
In Colossians, Paul talks about how important it is not just to have knowledge, but to be “rooted” and “built up” in Christ. Think of a tree: it can only grow tall and healthy if its roots go deep. In the same way, when we put our trust in Jesus and let our love and faith grow, we become stronger and more secure.
He warns not to be tricked by ideas that sound good but pull us away from Jesus. All the real treasures of wisdom and truth are found in Christ, not just in clever words or new teachings.
Practical Takeaways
· It’s about relationship, not just information: Just like you can know a lot about a celebrity but not really know them, God wants you to know Him personally.
· Spiritual thirst is real: If you feel empty, restless, or like something’s missing, Jesus invites you to come to Him for true satisfaction.
· The Holy Spirit brings life: Believing in Jesus means the Holy Spirit will live in you—helping you, changing you, and giving you peace and purpose.
· Stay rooted in Christ: Keep learning, praying, and growing in your faith, and you’ll experience the fullness that God promises.
In summary: Knowing about God is only the first step. Truly knowing God means accepting Jesus’ invitation, letting the Holy Spirit change and guide you, and building your life on a relationship with Him. This is where real, lasting spiritual life begins—like a river of living water flowing from within you, refreshing not just your own soul but offering life and hope to those around you.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 