Rhapsody Of Realities 30 July 2024: INCREASING IN THE “EPIGNOSIS” OF HIM By Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (Christ Embassy). “Epignosis” surpasses mere observation; it involves a profound spiritual connection
📅 TUES. 30TH JULY 2024
INCREASING IN THE “EPIGNOSIS” OF HIM
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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).
Rhapsody Of Realities For Today’s Devotional MESSAGE
Pastor Chris Says
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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!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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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 :
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2 Peter 1:2-3; grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
[3] according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
2 Peter 3:18; But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Read All Previous Rhapsody of Realities for July
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Romans 5:1-11 & Psalms 49-51
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Ephesians 4:17-24 & Isaiah 50
Read Also: Open Heavens 30 July 2024: Comfort VS Fellowship
Jesus Trends Salvation Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come to You in humility and repentance, acknowledging my sins and my need for Your grace. Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God, who died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I confess You as my Savior and Lord.
Forgive me, cleanse me with Your precious blood, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit. I turn away from my sinful ways and open my heart to You. Take control of my life and guide me in Your truth.
If you joined in that life-changing prayer, congratulations! We are happy that you have surrendered your life to Jesus!
About the Rhapsody of Realities Devotional
Rhapsody of Realities 2024 Devotional was authored by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome (D.Sc., D.D.), the distinguished President of Loveworld Inc., also known as Christ Embassy International.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome is a globally recognized spiritual leader whose ministry has profoundly impacted millions of lives through his insightful teachings and unwavering commitment to the gospel.
The Rhapsody of Realities devotional offers daily spiritual nourishment and inspiration, guiding believers in their walk with Christ and deepening their understanding of God’s Word.
Loveworld Inc., under Pastor Chris’s visionary leadership, continues to spread the message of hope and salvation to every corner of the world.
Pastor Chris has declared July 2024 as the month of JOY! As is customary, he reiterated that God's saints should organise themselves in their various Churches and groups to make merry, eating and drinking in the presence of the Lord, all-month-long. "It's the joy of the Lord and expression of that joy is a sacrifice to the Lord,'' the Man of God posed, explaining the significance of the feasts. So enjoy this Month of Joy!
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