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Eileen Beckett

Faith & Knowledge

Eileen Beckett 2 min read
#Faith #Regeneration #Justification
205 Articles
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Eileen Beckett
Eileen Beckett 2 min read
205 articles
What does the Bible say about knowledge and faith?

The Bible emphasizes the importance of knowledge as part of growing in faith, highlighting that true knowledge leads to a deeper understanding of God.

The Bible underscores the importance of knowledge in the life of a believer, especially as it pertains to faith. In Colossians 3:10, we are reminded that believers are to put on the new self, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of the Creator. This indicates that knowledge is not merely academic but transformative, guiding us closer to the image of Christ. Likewise, Ephesians 4:23 encourages us to be renewed in the spirit of our minds, indicating that growth in knowledge leads to spiritual renewal and understanding of doctrinal truths, such as justification.

As we gain knowledge about God and His Word, it fosters a stronger foundation for our faith, moving us beyond a mystical understanding to a robust, doctrinal assurance. The more we understand the Scriptures, the more we can trust in the promises and character of God, thereby enriching our relationship with Him. This journey of learning and growth is essential in a well-rounded Christian life, as it cultivates both faith and knowledge, leading to spiritual maturity.
How do we know regeneration leads to a renewed mind?

Regeneration transforms a believer's mind and thinking, aligning it with God's will and truth.

Regeneration, as described in Scripture, is the act of being born again and receiving a new nature that fundamentally alters our thinking and perspective. This transformational process is echoed in passages like Colossians 3:10, where the believer's new self is said to be renewed in knowledge, which reflects the image of God. This renewal signifies that regeneration is not just a change in outward behavior but a profound shift in how we think, perceive, and understand the world around us.

The renewal of the mind is critical for living a life that honors God. In Ephesians 4:23, we are instructed to 'be renewed in the spirit of your mind,' emphasizing that our mental transformation is essential for spiritual growth. This renewed mind enables believers to discern truth from error, embrace doctrinal truths, and navigate life's challenges with a Christ-centered perspective. Ultimately, regeneration equips us to live in accordance with God's will and fosters a deeper, more meaningful faith.
Why is growing in knowledge important for Christians?

Growing in knowledge helps Christians deepen their faith and understand God's truths more profoundly.

Growing in knowledge is vital for Christians as it enables a richer understanding of God's character, His promises, and the truths of Scripture. As believers seek to grow in the grace and knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, they develop a deeper assurance and trust in their faith. This growth is not for the sake of knowledge alone, which can lead to pride, but rather as a means to know God more fully and appreciate the depth of His love.

Furthermore, knowledge strengthens our ability to adhere to sound doctrine, which is crucial in a world filled with differing beliefs and philosophies. Through the study of biblical truths, believers become equipped to defend their faith, resist false teachings, and encourage one another in their Christian walk. The joy of knowledge comes not just in intellectual pursuit but in the transformative effects it has on our lives as it draws us closer to Christ and fortifies our faith against doubt and uncertainty.

     I heard this combination from the pulpit on Sunday and I was thankful. I don’t believe in my early Christian days that I even knew this, which leaves faith weak and a mystical type of thing with very little substance. Perhaps it was talked about and I just didn’t hear. Perhaps too as a convert to Christ later in life and coming into the church without knowledge, the importance of pointing me in that direction was overlooked and I was afraid to ask questions. Maybe women aren’t encouraged as much as men to study to show ourselves approved but now that I have come to understand that women too are to ‘grow in the grace and the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, I am ecstatic.

     I am not ecstatic for knowledge in and of itself and so I guard that as I know knowledge can puff us up. I am ecstatic that I have grown in Christ thereby. I have grown in ‘knowing’ Him, I have grown in assurance, in trust and in my understanding of the greatest of doctrinal truths such as ‘justification’. I don’t tire of knowing these things as they teach me more of the love of God in Christ Jesus. Regeneration changes our thinking, our mind is renewed.

     I had one commentary all those years…. Calvin’s commentary on Romans. Now at my fingertips, via the computer, I have all of his commentaries on one .com address. I have a program called e-sword that I use a lot too and I have access to the thoughts of all the greats of the past. I have current thoughts as well as I find good places to visit online. I have learned to some degree to ask questions but I am still not comfortable in doing so which is so funny because I have a friend who does ask questions for that is how she learns. We are all different in this growing, but whatever way the Lord has for me I am truly thankful to Him.

Col 3:10 “And have put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him”

Eph 4:23 “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind”

 

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