Why Increasing in Spiritual Understanding Matters—and How to Do It Well
Introduction: The Journey of Spiritual Growth
Growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ isn’t a one-time event—it’s a lifelong journey. Like learning anything worth knowing, it takes time, effort, and a willingness to let your faith and character lead the way. Before we dive into what it means to truly know Jesus, it’s important to recognize that faith and virtue (good character) are the foundation stones. Without a heart set on trusting God and living rightly, knowledge can easily become just information. But when faith and virtue come first, our understanding grows in ways that truly change us.
Understanding Knowledge: What Does the Bible Really Mean?
When you read scripture, you’ll notice that “knowledge” isn’t just book smarts or facts. The Bible uses two main words for knowledge: gnosis and epignosis. Gnosis means general understanding, like knowing about something. Epignosis goes deeper—it’s personal, experiential, and relational. Epignosis is knowing Jesus not just as a historical figure or a name in a book, but as a living Lord who guides, comforts, and transforms you.
Both kinds of knowledge matter. Gnosis helps us understand the basics of faith, while epignosis invites us into a closer, more meaningful relationship with Christ. Think of it like the difference between knowing facts about someone and actually being their friend.
Why Knowledge Matters: God’s Expectation for His People
God doesn’t want His people to stay in the dark or be content with surface-level understanding. The Bible is clear that God expects us to seek knowledge. Hosea 4:6 warns, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.” Without growing in what we know about God—who He is, what He’s done, and what He asks of us—we can easily get lost, confused, or led astray.
Increasing in knowledge isn’t just about being smarter or winning arguments. It’s about living wisely, making better choices, and staying rooted in truth when life gets tough. God wants us to pursue understanding so we can thrive spiritually and help others do the same.
How to Grow in Knowledge: Practical Steps for Everyday Life
So how do we actually grow in the knowledge of Jesus Christ? It’s simpler than you might think, but it does require commitment:
· Read Scripture Regularly: The Bible is our main source of truth about God. Make it a habit to spend time reading and reflecting on scripture, even just a little each day.
· Value Learning: Be curious! Ask questions, seek answers, and don’t be afraid to admit when you don’t know something. God loves a humble learner.
· Seek Instruction: Listen to trusted teachers, pastors, and mature Christians. Join a Bible study or small group where you can learn together and encourage each other.
· Make Study a Priority: Set aside time for focused study, not just casual reading. Take notes, memorize verses, and ponder how what you learn can shape your life.
· Check Your Attitude: Approach learning with humility, asking God to help you grow, not just to know more but to become more like Christ.
Dangers of Knowledge: Staying Humble and Loving
With all the emphasis on gaining knowledge, there’s a warning that comes with it. Knowledge, by itself, can lead to arrogance or pride. It’s easy to look down on others or think you have all the answers. Worse, misusing knowledge can hurt people and damage relationships. That’s why the Bible says, “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.”
The key is to let love and humility guide how you use what you know. Remember, the goal isn’t to impress others but to serve and build up those around you. True knowledge draws us closer to Jesus—and makes us kinder, wiser, and more compassionate.
Conclusion: Pursue Knowledge for Spiritual Growth
Growing in the knowledge of Jesus Christ is an adventure—sometimes challenging, always rewarding. It starts with faith and virtue and blossoms as we open our hearts and minds to learn more about God. As you pursue knowledge, stay humble, let love be your guide, and remember that spiritual understanding builds a stronger, more excellent faith.
So don’t be afraid to ask questions, dig deeper, and seek out wisdom. God welcomes your journey and promises to walk alongside you every step of the way. May your pursuit of knowledge lead you to greater faith, deeper love, and a life that reflects the character of Jesus Christ.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 