Welcome back to our enriching journey on the ‘Health for the Spirit, Soul, and Body’ blog, brought to you by Doxa Missions. Here, we look at simple principles and practical steps that foster our spiritual growth. Today, we turn our focus to a topic that holds a special place in my heart - the pursuit of ‘Revelation Knowledge’. Join me as we explore and uncover the divine wisdom hidden within it.
Understanding Revelation Knowledge
Revelation knowledge, within the context of the Kingdom of God and biblical concepts, is distinct from general or worldly knowledge. It is a unique type of knowledge revealed by the Holy Spirit of God to our spirit. This knowledge doesn’t originate externally, but rather internally.
A prime example of this kind of knowledge is found in Matthew 16:17 in the Amplified Bible. Here, Jesus commends Peter for his understanding that Jesus was the Christ. The verse reads:
“Then Jesus answered him, 'Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) are you, Simon Bar-Jonah. For flesh and blood [men] have not revealed this to you, but My Father Who is in heaven.'”
This verse illustrates how revelation knowledge works – it is not man-made or derived from the physical world but is a divine revelation from God Himself.
The Greek Concept of Knowledge - Understanding Epignosis
When we examine 2 Peter 1:2 in the King James version of the Bible, it reads, "Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord". The New Testament, originally written in Greek, uses the word “epignosis” for “knowledge” in this verse. In the Strong’s Concordance, “epignosis” is defined as full discernment, recognition, and acknowledgement.
Looking at the same scripture translated in the Amplified version, it reads, "Grace and peace [that special sense of spiritual well-being] be multiplied to you in the [true, intimate] knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord". This makes it clear that the “knowledge” referred to here is not ordinary knowledge gained from our five senses. Instead, it is knowledge gained through a revelation from the Holy Spirit to our spirit.
In essence, “epignosis” represents a deeper, more intimate understanding of God and Jesus our Lord. It is a knowledge that transcends the physical and enters the spiritual, offering a profound connection and recognition of the divine. This form of knowledge is not merely about knowing facts or information; it’s about experiencing a personal, experiential relationship with God. It’s about perceiving and discerning the divine truth revealed by the Holy Spirit. This revelation knowledge, or “epignosis,” is a key aspect of spiritual growth and understanding in the Christian faith.
Therefore, as we seek to grow in our faith, let us strive for “epignosis” – for that deeper, intimate knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord, revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. For it is through this revelation knowledge that grace, and peace are multiplied unto us.
God’s Hidden Wisdom for the Saints
As we look further into the Bible, we encounter a recurring concept: God has not hidden His wisdom from His children, but rather, He has hidden His wisdom for them. This wisdom is not concealed from us; instead, it is stored up for us, ready to be revealed at the right time.
In Matthew 11:25, the Amplified Bible reads, "At that time Jesus said, ‘I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth [I openly and joyfully acknowledge Your great wisdom], that You have hidden these things [these spiritual truths] from the wise and intelligent and revealed them to infants [to new believers, to those seeking God’s will and purpose].’" This verse emphasizes that divine wisdom is often revealed to those who approach with a humble and open heart, much like a child.
This concept is also seen in 1 Corinthians 2:10, which states, "For God has unveiled them and revealed them to us through the [Holy] Spirit; for the Spirit searches all things [diligently], even [sounding and measuring] the [profound] depths of God [the divine counsels and things far beyond human understanding]." This implies that the wisdom of God is like a mystery, hidden but revealed to us by the Holy Spirit.
Furthermore, 1 Timothy 2:4 indicates that the Lord desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. This suggests that God wants this revelation knowledge to be made known to us.
God’s wisdom is not a secret kept from us, but a treasure kept for us, ready to be revealed through the Holy Spirit. As we seek God and His wisdom, we can trust that He will reveal His truths to us in His perfect timing.
Personal Reflections on Revelation Knowledge
One of the personal experiences of revelation knowledge that I have had is the understanding of God as an earthly father, rather than a supreme and unapproachable being distant from me. This revelation knowledge was gained from reading and understanding the scriptures. For instance, David wrote many psalms and spoke about God as if God were his earthly father. This understanding helped me approach God without fear. It helps me approach God the way I would have approached my father, and it helps me talk to God in a way I believe He would understand, without being afraid when I am in His presence.
Another revelation that has helped me become closer to God and grow spiritually is the understanding of the fact that God loves me, not because of something that I have done personally or something I will do, but because of what Jesus did on my behalf. And the fact that I have accepted Him as my Lord and personal Savior. Therefore, I understand that God’s love for me is not dependent on me but is because of His grace or unmerited favor.
Receiving Revelation Knowledge
If you, like me, are hungry for revelation knowledge, position yourself to receive it. This can be achieved by studying the Word of God, meditating on it, communicating with God in prayer, fellowshipping with God, and expecting revelations to come from Him. It is truly exciting to receive revelation knowledge of the Word of God.
One of the ways I receive revelation knowledge of the Word of God is while reading a scripture from the Bible, even one I have read many times before. I find myself suddenly understanding it in a way I had never considered before. With this understanding comes an assurance from within and a confidence in the truth of that understanding. This is the power and beauty of revelation knowledge. It illuminates the Word of God in new and profound ways, deepening our relationship with Him.
Acting on Your Revelations
One very important aspect of receiving revelation from God is the necessity to act on the revelation received. James 1:22-25 in the Amplified Bible encourages us to be doers of the Word of God and not merely listeners. The passage reads:
"But prove yourselves doers of the word [actively and continually obeying God’s precepts], and not merely listeners [who hear the word but fail to internalize its meaning], deluding yourselves [by unsound reasoning contrary to the truth]. For if anyone only listens to the word without obeying it, he is like a man who looks very carefully at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he immediately forgets what he looked like. But he who looks carefully into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and faithfully abides by it, not having become a [careless] listener who forgets but an active doer [who obeys], he will be blessed and favored by God in what he does [in his life of obedience]."
This scripture emphasizes that we are blessed when we are doers of the Word and not forgetful hearers. It’s important to note that the initial revelations we receive from God as we expect the revelations to come will be simple and straightforward. These revelations will not be contrary to the Word of God in the Bible. As we receive revelations that align with the Word of God, we should follow them, and we will see a river of revelations open up to us. This is the beauty and power of acting on divine revelations. It not only deepens our understanding of God’s Word but also enriches our relationship with Him.
As we conclude our exploration of ‘Revelation Knowledge’, let’s remember that the journey towards spiritual growth is a continuous one. Each day presents a new opportunity to deepen our understanding and strengthen our relationship with God. Let’s commit to being doers of the Word, not just hearers. Let’s strive to seek and act on the revelations that God has in store for us. Remember, the wisdom of God is not hidden from us, but for us. So, let’s dive into the Word, meditate on it, pray, and expect divine revelations. Let’s open our hearts and minds to the river of revelations that God is ready to pour out on us.
We'd love to hear your experiences and insights on revelation knowledge. Share your thoughts in the comments section below, and let's foster a vibrant community dialogue on our spiritual journeys. Stay blessed and keep seeking!
Thank you Doc for your Insightful writing. GOD Bless you