Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Knowledge and Love

Jim:

1 Corinthians 8:1-13
In verses 1b-3 Paul writes, “Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. Anyone who claims to know something does not yet have the necessary knowledge; but anyone who loves God is known by him.” This is a good reminder that God calls us, first and foremost, to trust God and to live in faithful obedience. Jesus said that the whole law hinges on loving God with every part of our lives and loving our neighbors as ourselves. In his song Mind Games, John Lennon sings, “Love is the answer, and you know that for sure.” I don’t believe that Lennon was inspired by the words of 1 Corinthians, but the sentiment is apt. Love, God’s love, is the answer to living in right relationship with God and with one another. Trusting our own knowledge can only lead to pride, arrogance, and ultimately to a false sense of security. Love is the answer.


Matthew 7:13-21
Jesus tells his followers, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles?…Thus you will know them by their fruits.” (v. 15-16, 20) Jesus reminds us that the ends do not justify the means. In fact, the fruit we produce will be a good indication of where our hearts lie, where our treasure is, whether we are guided by love for God and neighbor, or by our own desires or knowledge.

No comments: