Knowing About Jesus vs. Knowing Jesus

Attribute	Knowing About Jesus	Knowing Jesus
Information	Historical facts, teachings, and stories about Jesus	Personal relationship and experience with Jesus
Focus	External knowledge and understanding	Internal connection and intimacy
Level of involvement	Intellectual and academic	Emotional and spiritual
Impact	Can influence beliefs and behavior	Can transform lives and bring salvation

Introduction

When it comes to Christianity, there is a distinction between knowing about Jesus and truly knowing Jesus. Knowing about Jesus involves having knowledge of his life, teachings, and miracles, while knowing Jesus goes beyond mere facts to having a personal relationship with him. In this article, we will explore the attributes of knowing about Jesus and knowing Jesus, highlighting the differences between the two.

Knowing About Jesus

Knowing about Jesus typically involves learning about his historical background, the events of his life, and the teachings he shared. This knowledge can be gained through reading the Bible, attending church services, or studying Christian theology. Understanding the context in which Jesus lived and the impact he had on the world is essential in knowing about Jesus.

One attribute of knowing about Jesus is that it can be purely academic or intellectual in nature. People can have a wealth of knowledge about Jesus without necessarily having a personal connection to him. This type of knowledge may focus on the facts and details of Jesus' life without delving into the deeper spiritual significance of his teachings.

Another attribute of knowing about Jesus is that it can be passive or observational. Individuals may learn about Jesus from a distance, without actively engaging with his message or seeking to apply it to their own lives. This type of knowledge may lack the transformative power that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus.

Knowing about Jesus can also involve cultural or societal influences. People may be familiar with Jesus as a historical figure or religious icon without truly understanding the significance of his life and teachings. This surface-level knowledge may not lead to a deeper understanding of Jesus' message or a personal connection with him.

In summary, knowing about Jesus involves acquiring knowledge of his life, teachings, and impact on the world. This knowledge can be academic, observational, or influenced by cultural factors, but it may not necessarily lead to a personal relationship with Jesus.

Knowing Jesus

Knowing Jesus, on the other hand, goes beyond mere facts and knowledge to involve a personal relationship with him. This type of knowing is based on faith, trust, and a deep connection with Jesus as Lord and Savior. Knowing Jesus requires a heart transformation and a willingness to follow his teachings and example.

One attribute of knowing Jesus is that it is experiential and relational. People who know Jesus have a personal connection with him through prayer, worship, and spiritual practices. This relationship is based on love, grace, and forgiveness, and it shapes every aspect of their lives.

Another attribute of knowing Jesus is that it is transformative and life-changing. Those who truly know Jesus experience a profound sense of peace, joy, and purpose that comes from being in relationship with him. This knowledge goes beyond intellectual understanding to a deep spiritual connection that sustains them through life's challenges.

Knowing Jesus also involves obedience and discipleship. People who know Jesus seek to follow his teachings and example in their daily lives, striving to live out the values of love, compassion, and service that he embodied. This type of knowledge requires a commitment to growing in faith and allowing Jesus to shape their character and actions.

In summary, knowing Jesus is about more than just acquiring knowledge; it is about developing a personal relationship with him based on faith, trust, and obedience. This type of knowing is experiential, transformative, and rooted in a deep connection with Jesus as Lord and Savior.

Conclusion

While knowing about Jesus is important for understanding his life and teachings, knowing Jesus is essential for experiencing the fullness of his love and grace. Developing a personal relationship with Jesus involves faith, trust, and obedience, and it leads to a transformative and life-changing experience. By moving beyond mere knowledge to a deep connection with Jesus, individuals can find peace, joy, and purpose in their lives.