22
May '25
Knowing Jesus
22
May '25
Introduction: Do you really know Jesus—not just about Him? What did God mean when He inspired Paul to write to the Philippians concerning “knowing Jesus”? In the context of chapter three, after rehearsing his credentials and pedigree and explaining the futility of relying upon all of his man-made righteousness, Paul concludes that it was nothing but rubbish compared to having Jesus Christ’s righteousness. Next, he goes into further detail by stating that his lifelong goal and desire—once he had been saved by Jesus Christ—was to know Jesus. But what does that entail?
This devotion will discuss some biblical insights that we can appropriate as well.
1. Knowing Jesus PERSONALLY! (Philippians 3:10) – “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death.”
Admittedly, it is one thing to merely know the stories of Jesus healing blind eyes, raising the dead, and casting out devils. However, it is altogether a different experience to know His forgiveness of our sins, along with the grace that enables us to forgive others.
2. Knowing Jesus POWERFULLY! (Philippians 3:10) – “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death.”
What a great thought—His POWER! The “power” of His resurrection includes daily living. Fulfilling our biblical roles as godly husbands, dads, moms, wives, and Christians requires the power of His resurrection. Praise God… it is available! Are you experiencing this supernatural life empowered by the Holy Spirit of God? If not, you can tap into it by trusting Jesus.
3. Knowing Jesus PROPHETICALLY! (Philippians 3:10) – “That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death.”
The last part of this verse has a deeper meaning. Why suffer? What good comes from it? Why would a good God allow His people to suffer? Remember, beloved, that Jesus Christ’s mission included suffering. Also, do not forget that we have been called to follow in His steps. Peter, Paul, James, and other biblical writers emphasized the ministry of “suffering” (2 Timothy 3:12; 2:12; Romans 8:18; 1 Peter 2:21–24, etc.). Have you ever suffered for Christ’s sake?
Conclusion: Wrapping it up, knowing Christ Jesus PERSONALLY, POWERFULLY, and PROPHETICALLY is life’s highest reward. Remember: Christianity is not a religion but a relationship. Let’s not only get to know Him better—but let Him be known!
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese