INCREASING IN THE “EPIGNOSIS” OF HIM
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Colossians 1:9-10).
What we just read is the Spirit’s prayer for the Church through the Apostle Paul. God wants you to be fruitful in every good work while simultaneously increasing in the knowledge of God. How important this is! What’s intriguing about Paul’s choice of words here is his use of “Epignosis” (Greek) for knowledge.
That term wasn’t commonly used in everyday conversations in Bible days. Interestingly, it was also used by Peter only in his second epistle, possibly influenced by Paul’s message. “Epignosis” refers to precise, correct knowledge. The power of “Epignosis” lies in its ability to relate with that which is known; it’s knowledge with intimacy.
Paul introduced this kind of knowledge which the Jews generally weren’t acquainted with; they focused on memorising the Law, reading, internalizing and repeating it. But God wanted more; He didn’t want them to have just mere head knowledge of Him but the “epignosis” of Him.
No wonder He said, “…this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me…” (Isaiah 29:13). The Lord Jesus reiterated the same words in Matthew 15:8, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.”
For them in the Old Testament, there was no real relationship even though they could recite every detail or aspect of the Law. Therefore, Paul introduced this higher form of knowledge, a knowledge that includes fellowship with that which is known.
“Epignosis” surpasses mere observation; it involves a profound spiritual connection. So, when you engage with the Scriptures, it’s not merely about routine learning; it’s about deepening your relationship and interaction with the Lord and His divine truths. Hallelujah!
CONFESSION
I’m filled with the precise and exact knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I walk worthy of Him, pleasing Him in every way, being fruitful in every good work even as my “epignosis” of Him increases, and I experience the power thereof, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
2 Peter 1:2-3, 2 Peter 3:18
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 5:1-11, Psalms 49-51
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 4:17-24, Isaiah 50
