Counsel of Spiritual Life

Counsel #1 — Knowledge Or Relationship?

Picture: Counsel #1 — Knowledge Or Relationship? CSL 19.1

Do you know someone who has an in-depth understanding of God’s Word, yet something is missing? We can know all kinds of things about Jesus but have no experiential relationship with Him whatsoever. CSL 19.2

Think about the close relationships in your life. If you love your parents, it started when they demonstrated their love to you from babyhood. Your spouse or your significant other expressed interest in you, confessed their love, and you responded. Even our close friends are often chosen because of their loyalty and support through thick and thin. CSL 19.3

Similarly, our love for Jesus is awakened when we realize the depths of His love, concern, and care for us. When our mind’s eye really sees Him in agony on Calvary’s cross and we realize that all that loving, all that suffering and dying is for us personally, it triggers a response of love for Him and others. If we continue seeking Him with all our heart, He connects to us in profound and significant ways.^[16] CSL 19.4

Having mere knowledge about Jesus, however extensive, is not a relationship with Jesus! CSL 19.5

“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 CSL 19.6

“The theme that attracts the heart of the sinner is Christ, and Him crucified. On the cross of Calvary, Jesus stands revealed to the world in unparalleled love. Present Him thus to the hungering multitudes, and the light of His love will win men from darkness to light, from transgression to obedience and true holiness.” Ellen White in Maranatha, p. 99 CSL 19.7

Reflect: Do you know Jesus personally, or do you just know about Him? CSL 19.8