This week’s Pastor to Person is written by Pastor Franklin Garcia.
“…while knowledge makes us feel important, it is love that edifies people. Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes.” 1 Corinthians 8:1–3
Paul set up two contrasts “the man who claim to know all the answers “and “the person who loves God”. Paul addresses the attitude of the “educated”, the knowledge that fuels arrogance by redirecting their understanding of the boundary marker of a Christian. It is not knowledge (of idols or even of God himself) that distinguishes a Christian. Rather Jesus’ followers are identified by the love they show toward God and their neighbors.
Sometimes having knowledge leads us to think that we are better than others. Knowledge is not bad; it is good to learn, it is good to grow intellectually and to be able to develop as learners to contribute to the kingdom of God. The problem with knowledge arises when we forget that we are children of God, called to serve, love our neighbors and be humble.
Furthermore, we should try to use our knowledge by serving others without bringing attention to ourselves. Our deeds done in humility will give others the confidence to seek help and counsel from us. Our wisdom from above should be manifested through humility, so that others can benefit from our knowledge. Knowledge accompanied by love and humility is a useful tool that will benefit all those around us.
-Pastor Franklin