Ep. 314 - What Does It Mean to Know God?

Today, Ray, E.Z., and Mark are joined by Nathan W. Bingham, Vice President of Ministry Engagement at Ligonier Ministries and host of Renewing Your Mind. The distinction between knowing about God and truly knowing Him is essential. While God has revealed Himself to all creation, saving knowledge of Him is unique and transformative. Many, even within the church, worship a god of their own making, mistaking it for the one true God. This can complicate evangelism, particularly in places like the United States, where cultural Christianity often obscures genuine faith. In the Bible, even Samuel initially did not recognize God's voice, highlighting that knowing God is not merely about religious activity but a personal relationship.

Knowing God transforms the heart and life. It doesn’t mean constant bliss but includes trials and suffering that refine faith and draw believers closer to Him. When life is challenging, believers can rest in the promise of a loving Heavenly Father who walks with them through every valley. Trusting God’s sovereignty and goodness allows us to cast our cares on Him, knowing He works all things for our good. Even discouragement and repentance reflect God’s work in our lives, urging us to leave sin and run to Him.

The best way to know God is through His Word. Scripture provides an objective foundation, revealing God’s character and attributes, such as His holiness, love, grace, and justice. Modern Christianity often emphasizes God's love while neglecting His holiness—the only attribute in Scripture raised to the third degree. Isaiah’s vision of God’s holiness revealed his own sinfulness, reminding us that even our best deeds fall short compared to God’s perfection. A proper understanding of God's holiness compels repentance and awe.

Salvation rests solely on faith in God’s promises, rooted in His grace and mercy. Knowing Christ is central—misunderstanding Christ means misunderstanding the gospel. God’s sovereignty assures us that He doesn’t merely try to save; He saves. This truth offers comfort, as everything God does is holy, good, and trustworthy. Though we don’t know what tomorrow holds, we know God’s character and can rely on Him. To grow in knowing God, immerse yourself in Scripture. Meditate on His Word, where God reveals Himself fully. A life transformed by truly knowing the Lord reflects His holiness and glorifies Him.

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Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.

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Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro