The Excellence Of The Knowledge Of Christ

May 2011 – Grace & Truth Magazine

The Excellence Of The
Knowledge Of Christ

We are living in an age of rapid development – scientifically, technologically and mentally. We say rather glibly, that men are wiser today than they’ve ever been. But where has all this human knowledge brought us?

The world today is in a greater state of chaos and confusion than in all of history. The past fifty years have seen an unprecedented forward march in scientific knowledge and technological inventions. And concurrent with this march has been a steady downward trend of social disintegration, of international hatred and prejudice, of wars and rumors of wars.

Contrast all this for a moment with what Paul calls the “excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (Phil 3:8 NKJV). While knowledge in man’s sphere seems often to endanger the welfare of people, the knowledge of Christ is uplifting, resulting in the salvation of souls, the elevation of the human spirit and the enlargement of the human affections.

It is a known fact that knowledge in man’s realm seems to increase our avarice, our jealousy of each other and our lack of sympathy with those in need; but the knowledge of Christ changes a man at the very roots of his being, and implants in his soul the far-reaching love of God.

This should bring home to us the tremendous need today for “the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes” (Rom. 1:16). May we hold it high in these days of uncertainty and chaotic confusion!

“The excellence of the knowledge of Christ” is a treasure, and “we have this treasure in earthen vessels” (2 Cor. 4:7). Other knowledge may be good, but the knowledge of Christ is excellent – and a cause for worship!”

By Tom Westwood