Scripture Knowledge

Text: Matthew 2:1-8     IBCWPM      December 17, 2003

Preacher: Pastor Jose B. Cabajar

   Knowledge is an asset that produces multiple advantages and benefits to be enjoyed by the possessor. Getting knowledge is a natural process; it starts the moment a child is born. Attitude towards learning affects the measure of knowledge that will be earned by a person. Good attitude gives the student a good way to gain more knowledge. Bad attitude not only blocks the progress of ones education but also leads him to ignorance and other unpleasant consequences.

    A person who rejects knowledge is not considered a sound person, but a man who embraces knowledge will become successful in his chosen course. Knowledge comes before understanding, understanding comes before wisdom and fear of God comes before sound wisdom. Gaining the right knowledge is the key to a better understanding and having the right understanding leads a man to the gate of wisdom.

    Scripture knowledge is the best knowledge every living man could gain. This kind of treasure cannot be compared with silver and gold. It surpasses the riches of the whole world and that is the reason why the world cannot afford to give it. It has been said that no man can find his way to God without the Word of God.

    The Word of God is powerful. Living by the Word produces strong faith and godly living. The Word of God should not be a light thing in a corner, but a wonderful treasure one should be proud of. Well-lived Word of God glorifies God, but well-displayed head knowledge without application will push a man to his own spiritual shipwreck.

    Matthew chapter 2 is a very relevant lesson to be considered as we celebrate the Christmas season. It helps us to understand the true value of Scripture knowledge. It also knocks the door of our awareness that we may see the danger of not applied Scripture knowledge and the blessings of a well-applied Word of God.      

                        (I)  Scripture Knowledge Is A Great Help

Matthew 2:1-8

-Understood by the chief priests and scribes

  Matthew 2:4-6 

-Its authority was not questioned by Herod

  Matthew 2:7-8

-Guided the wise men   Matthew 2:8, 9

       In this chapter we could see three kinds of people: First, the chief priests and the scribes who were knowledgeable of the Scriptures. Through the Scriptures, they were able to known the exact birth place of the coming Messiah. They had the advantage and authority to answer hard question because of the knowledge they gained through the Scriptures. They became stand outs during puzzling times and attained great honor. Secondly, Herod represents people who were interested in the Scripture because they know the value of the Word of God which brings good and helpful information. Thirdly, the wise men, who were willing to get information from the Scriptures so that they could be properly guided in their memorable search for the Savior. These kinds of people are still the kinds of people we have today in our society. They did not question the authority of the Scriptures because of the great advantage they get from it.      

 (II)  Scripture Knowledge Must Be Applied

Matthew 1:8-11

-Mere knowledge is not enough    Matthew 23:2-4

-Questionable application of knowledge is dangerous        Matthew 1:16

-Right application of knowledge brings us to the Lord            Matthew 2:10-12

       Knowledge is power and whosoever loves knowledge will become a blessing to others. True Knowledge must grow up to wisdom. This will happen progressively if knowledge is applied in mans daily life. Fruitless knowledge is useless. The chief priests and scribes were knowledgeable, but their knowledge remained merely head knowledge, and not applied. Matthew 23:2-7 reminds us of the disadvantage of plain knowledge without visible spiritual fruits. The chief priests and the scribes knew where the Savior was, but had no desire to go to Bethlehem and worship the King of the Jews. Many professing believers today have in common with their spiritual category. We should be watchful of our attitude when it comes to practicing what we teach and preach. Our beliefs must be confirmed by what we practice in life.  

    Scripture knowledge must be appropriated in the lives of men. Knowledge for self gain is dangerous and destructive. Herod did not question the authority of the Scriptures and yet in his mind he had an evil plan for the child Jesus. He told the wise men his hypocritical desire to worship the King of Jews, but deep in his heart was a burning desire to destroy the Savior. After his well-spoken words, he slew all the children in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under. Herod is a typical example of people who are using the Word of God for evil intentions.

    The wise men illustrated the best way of applying what they have learned from the Scriptures. Their Scripture knowledge led them to the Lord Jesus Christ. They gained more knowledge and understanding that is why their knowledge progressed into wisdom. Well-lived spiritual knowledge glorifies God. May our God-given knowledge be a precious part of our lives as we serve the Lord Jesus Christ.