Storing Up Knowledge

I. Introduction: We need to stay hungry for knowledge and the wisdom to use that knowledge correctly.

A. It is important in this lesson to establish where our wisdom and knowledge need to come from (Proverbs 2:1-6).

1. The wisdom that is “from above” (James 3:17).
2. Man’s wisdom is often contrary to God’s truth (I Corinthians 1:18-25).

1. One may have knowledge and misuse it because of a lack of understanding (I Timothy 1:3-7).
2. So, as we talk about knowledge, do not think wisdom and understanding are less important. In fact, think of the wording of Proverbs 4:5-7.

1. They looked for answers in the wrong places (Hosea 4:12).
2. Not knowing God left Israel without the knowledge to do good (Jeremiah 4:22).
3. Captivity was the result of their ignorance (Isaiah 5:13).
4. Whether of old or now, it is not good to be without knowledge (Proverbs 19:2 and I Corinthians 15:34).
5. Yet, the wisdom to use that knowledge aright has to be there too (Proverbs 15:2)!

1. Unto salvation (II Timothy 3:15).
2. Just think of the conclusion of the book of Hosea (Hosea 14:9).

1. Beyond keeping in line with God’s will, knowledge can be used wisely to gain advantage in this world (Psalms 119:130, Proverbs 14:15, and Colossians 3:16-17; Colossians 4:5-6).

1. You don’t get entangled with the affairs of this life (II Timothy 2:4).
2. Therefore you are not entangled with politics, materialistic pursuits, social pressures, worldly relationships, etc (cf. Luke 8:14).

2. Knowing how to use something matters (Ecclesiastes 10:10).
3. You also have to keep using that knowledge (Hebrews 5:14).

1. Repetition reinforces stability and keeps us grounded in truth (Philippians 3:1).
2. Remember, “add to your faith” (II Peter 1:5-10).
3. Before we conclude, I want to make sure to point out two challenges that come with growing in knowledge:

1. It’s not always “fun” to know more (Ecclesiastes 1:18).
2. With knowledge comes responsibility (Luke 12:47-48 and James 4:17).