The Knowledge

“But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things.” 2 Corinthians 11:6

Eloquence, diction, fair speech, and oratory skills are secondary (dare I say irrelevant) to the knowledge, understanding, and manifestation of the Spirit.  The flesh longs for something sweet to hear, in delivery and substance.  However, the heart and soul is thirsting for something deeper.  The presences and power of God that is manifested in knowledge of the Savior (not head knowledge, but heart knowledge), fellowship with the Spirit, and the example lived is the conduit through which conviction can flow.  In talent we can be very much lacking, but to have effect for the Kingdom, in knowledge we cannot.

The above text is a snap shot taken from the book of second Corinthians.  Like standing close to a painting, one must take a few steps back to see the whole picture.  Paul writes to them in defense of himself and the actions he took to further the gospel.  Those actions included the unwillingness to be a burden on the Corinthian church.  He abased himself so that the Gospel may be preached freely and they be exalted.  In this we see with a clear vision the character of the Apostle Paul and the message he sent, not only with his lips but with his life.  It is a message of denying yourself and lifting up Jesus.  Clearly, there were those that came preaching but did not bring a similar message.  Rather, one that exalted everyone (certainly themselves).  Seeing as Paul readily admits to his own shortcomings, it stands to reason to suspect that these same men were eloquent and attractive in their speech; but clearly not in knowledge, because knowledge of God does not come in exalting ourselves.  The wisdom and knowledge which is from above does not come to a proud heart, but a heart of humility.  A heart that wholly cries out “Have thine own way Lord.  Have thine own way. Hold o'er my being absolute sway.”  This knowledge is only learned at the feet of Jesus, and it is manifested in the life of the pupil.  So we see the picture is very plain.  In humility we receive the knowledge from God, which is manifested in the life lived, and reflects the man Jesus Christ.  If any man comes preaching another spirit, gospel, or Jesus; then he is a false and deceitful worker.  For knowledge of the Father is only found in service to the Son.

There is no substitute for spending time with Jesus, letting himself be manifested in you so you can manifest him to the world.  Diligent communion at the feet of Jesus; learning of him so that though we be rude in speech, lacking in talent, or lost for words; yet in knowledge we lack nothing because in Jesus we remain.