EXPERIENTIAL KNOWLEDGE

“That which was from the beginning, which we have HEARD, which we have SEEN with our eyes, which we have LOOKED UPON...” – 1 John 1:1a

Believers in Christ are privileged to partake of both Revelational and EXPERIENTIAL KNOWLEDGE: “That which was from the beginning, which we have HEARD, which we have SEEN with our eyes, which we have LOOKED UPON, and our hands have HANDLED, concerning the Word of life – the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us” (1 Jh.1: 1-2). Experiential Knowledge simply describes knowledge that is experienced. Often known as personal, existential, or direct knowledge, it is vital to our view of God. Personal experiences and encounters with God’s divine nature can increase our awareness of His Character and traits, on the basis of theological concepts and scriptures.

Experience can be a powerful teacher. The Greek word ginosko means “to come to know.” Jesus masterfully used real-life experiences to teach lasting lessons. In Mark 6:31–44 the disciples returned to Him after manifesting power to heal and cast out demons. They tried to rest, but large crowds followed them. He displayed an attitude of compassion as He taught late into the day: “Moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd” (v.34). The crowds were so engrossed with His teaching they forgot about food! Them He told His disciples to meet the people’s need and feed them. In His hands, the meagre supply multiplied to feed multitudes. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience in which the disciples and multitude witnessed an all-powerful God who was able to meet their needs.

Experiential Knowledge leads to greater understanding. Our measure of strength is proportionate to the degree of God’s knowledge we’ve experienced (Dan.11:32). Many people have mental knowledge of scriptures like the Pharisees – in touch with the letter but out-of-touch with the Person of the letter. The letter kills but the Spirit gives life (2Cor.3:6). They become victims because real strength comes from the experiential knowledge. Head knowledge is relevant to begin with, but if one camps in the letter of religion and theology, one may die and be buried quoting scriptures: “Having a form of godliness but denying its power” (2Tim.3:5a).

It’s not just the food we eat that benefits us but what our systems can absorb, retain and distribute. It’s the Word that becomes personal to us that benefits us (Jh.8: 31-32). We’re just motivational speakers until we become one with the Word. Many people are satisfied displaying knowledge without experiencing it. Facing life’s challenges reveals if the scriptures we quote are in our heart! It is insufficient to know the acts of God without knowing Him! Let’s walk into the reality of the scriptures we’ve accumulated over the years. That’s what brings Intimacy, Transformation, and Testimonies! It’s time to hear, see, look upon, and handle the Presence, Power, and Person of the Word!