THE KNOWLEDGE OF JESUS CHRIST

Introduction:

A. Paul Was On The "Fast Track To Success" (Phil. 3: 4 - 6)

1. He was a pure breed.

2. He was trained properly.

3. He had great zeal.

B. What Was It Worth? (Philippians 3: 7, 8)

1. Personal success was worthless.

2. Knowledge of Christ is worthwhile.

Body: Philippians 3: 4 - 10

I. The Knowledge Of Christ Which Is Excellent.

A. It is a "Personal" knowledge (Phil. 3: 10 - I may know...).

1. Cannot know Him through another’s relationship.

2. We must develop our won faith.

B. It is an "Intelligent" knowledge (Ephesians 1: 17 - 19).

C. It is an "Affectionate" knowledge (Ephesians 3: 17 - 19).

1. To know Him is to love Him.

2. To not love Him is to not know Him.

D. It is a "Satisfying" knowledge (John 6: 35).

1. He will satisfy our hunger and thirst for righteousness.

2. In Him is completeness and fullness (Col. 2: 9, 10).

II. Growing In This Knowledge.

A. The Word of God is Essential.

1. It is the only "Accurate" source.

2. It contains so much to learn.

(prophecy, history, life of Christ, letters to Christians)

3. We must study God’s Word!

B. Obedience is also Essential.

1. Knowledge of His work provokes us to obey.

2. Love for Him motivates our obedience.

3. To really know Him, we must live like Him.

4. Christ-like characteristics are developed through use (2 Peter 1: 5 - 8).

Conclusion:

A. Have You Come To Know Jesus?

1. Are you striving to have an excellent knowledge of Jesus?

2. Are you continuing to grow in this knowledge.

a. Through study.

b. Through experience.

B. If You Do Not Have This Knowledge, Then...

(Matthew 11: 28 - 30)