The Knowledge of God
The cultivation of the knowledge of God is essential for spiritual growth and progress in the Christian life.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical importance of cultivating a deep knowledge of God for spiritual growth, noting that many Christians remain stagnant in their faith due to a lack of commitment to this pursuit. He argues that true progress in the Christian life is directly proportional to our understanding of the Triune God, which requires dedicated time and effort. Tozer encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God, suggesting that a life devoted to knowing Him will naturally lead to fruitful ministry and spiritual maturity.
Text
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the first principles of the oracles of God; and you have come to need milk and not solid food. --Hebrews 5:12
Probably the most widespread and persistent problem to be found among Christians is the problem of retarded spiritual progress. Why, after years of Christian profession, do so many persons find themselves no farther along than when they first believed?...
The causes of retarded growth are many. It would not be accurate to ascribe the trouble to one single fault. One there is, however, which is so universal that it may easily be the main cause: failure to give time to the cultivation of the knowledge of God....
The Christian is strong or weak depending upon how closely he has cultivated the knowledge of God....
Progress in the Christian life is exactly equal to the growing knowledge we gain of the Triune God in personal experience. And such experience requires a whole life devoted to it and plenty of time spent at the holy task of cultivating God. God can be known satisfactorily only as we devote time to Him. The Root of the Righteous, 7-9.
"Lord, I'd like to devote the remaining years of my life and ministry to the 'holy task of cultivating God.' Help me to know You first, and then out of the overflow of that growing knowledge can come whatever ministry You choose to bless me with. Amen."
Sermon Outline
- The Problem of Retarded Spiritual Progress
- The Importance of Knowledge of God
- Cultivating Knowledge of God
- Time and Devotion Required
- Growing Knowledge of the Triune God
Key Quotes
“The Christian is strong or weak depending upon how closely he has cultivated the knowledge of God.” — A.W. Tozer
“Progress in the Christian life is exactly equal to the growing knowledge we gain of the Triune God in personal experience.” — A.W. Tozer
“God can be known satisfactorily only as we devote time to Him.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Make time to cultivate a deeper knowledge of God through personal experience and devotion.
- Recognize that spiritual growth is directly tied to the growing knowledge of the Triune God.
- Prioritize time and devotion to God to experience spiritual strength and progress.