Knowing Jesus: Beyond Words and into Action

In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, one question stands out as pivotal for every believer: Do you really know Jesus? It's easy to say we know Him, to sing about Him, and even to preach about Him. But when life tests us—and it will—do we truly know the Lord we claim to follow?

This profound inquiry takes us to Matthew 16:13-20, where Jesus asks His disciples two critical questions: "Who do people say I am?" and more pointedly, "Who do you say I am?" These questions aren't just historical curiosities; they're as relevant today as they were then. They challenge us to examine the depth of our relationship with Christ.

Peter's response, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God," wasn't just a lucky guess or a rehearsed answer. Jesus affirms that this revelation came from God Himself. This teaches us a crucial lesson: truly knowing Jesus goes beyond intellectual understanding or religious tradition. It requires divine revelation and a personal encounter with Him.

But here's where it gets interesting—and challenging. Shortly after this powerful declaration, Peter rebukes Jesus for speaking about His impending death. Jesus' response? "Get behind me, Satan!" This stark contrast shows us how quickly we can shift from spiritual insight to fleshly thinking. It's a reminder that knowing Jesus is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.

So, what does it mean to really know Jesus in our daily lives?

1. It's More Than Miracles

While Jesus performed many miracles, knowing Him goes beyond seeking His power for personal benefit. Many followed Jesus for the loaves and fishes, for healing, or deliverance. While these are aspects of His ministry, they don't encompass the fullness of who He is.

2. It's About His Church

Jesus declared, "I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it." This church isn't defined by race, color, or creed. It's a diverse body of believers united by the blood of Christ and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Knowing Jesus means understanding and participating in His vision for the church.

3. It Transforms Our Actions

Knowing Jesus should radically change how we live. It means loving our enemies, forgiving those who hurt us, and turning the other cheek. These aren't just lofty ideals; they're the practical outworking of truly knowing Christ. In a world divided by politics and ideologies, can we exemplify Christ's love and forgiveness?

4. It's Revealed in Trials

Life will "keep on lifing," as the saying goes. Challenges, losses, and disappointments will come. It's in these moments that our knowledge of Jesus is truly tested. Do we trust Him when our circumstances seem to contradict His goodness? Can we, like Job, declare "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him"?

5. It's Rooted in His Word

To know Jesus, we must know His teachings. The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) provides a blueprint for kingdom living. It challenges our attitudes, our priorities, and our relationships. Knowing Jesus means not just hearing these words, but living them out daily.

6. It Empowers Us

Jesus gave Peter the "keys of the kingdom," symbolizing authority. As believers, we too have been given spiritual authority. But do we recognize it? Do we use it? Many of us are like someone with a powerful car who never reads the manual—we have access to incredible spiritual resources but fail to utilize them fully.

7. It Leads to Freedom

Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32). This freedom isn't just about escaping physical bondage; it's about being liberated from sin, fear, and everything that holds us back from fully embracing God's purpose for our lives.

8. It Changes Our Identity

Knowing Jesus isn't just about what we do; it's about who we are. We're called to be "salt and light" in a dark world. This means standing out, not blending in. It means maintaining our Christian distinctiveness in the workplace, in our relationships, and in every area of life.

9. It Requires Intimacy

Just as a spouse can't be truly known without spending quality time together, knowing Jesus requires regular, intimate communion with Him. This goes beyond a quick prayer or a rushed Bible reading. It's about developing a deep, personal relationship through consistent time in His presence.

10. It's Evidenced by Obedience

Jesus said, "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). Knowing Jesus will inevitably lead to obeying Him, even when it's difficult or goes against cultural norms. It's in this obedience that our knowledge of Him is truly demonstrated and deepened.

As we reflect on these aspects of knowing Jesus, let's ask ourselves some hard questions: Do our actions align with His teachings? Are we living out the radical love and forgiveness He exemplified? Are we utilizing the spiritual authority He's given us? Are we truly free, or are we still bound by sin, unforgiveness, or worldly thinking?

Knowing Jesus is a lifelong journey. It's not always easy, and we'll make mistakes along the way. But as we pursue Him wholeheartedly, studying His Word, spending time in His presence, and obeying His commands, we'll find that our knowledge of Him deepens. And as it does, we'll be transformed more and more into His likeness, becoming powerful witnesses of His love and grace in a world that desperately needs Him.

Let's not settle for merely knowing about Jesus. Let's press in to truly know Him, allowing that knowledge to revolutionize every aspect of our lives. For in knowing Him, we find not just answers to life's questions, but life itself in all its fullness.