In 1733, the enlightenment philosopher Alexander Pope wrote, “The proper study of mankind is man.” Although this sounds wise, it is an ignorant declaration. The only proper study for mankind is God. Without the knowledge of God, it is impossible for any man to know himself, to understand others, or to properly relate to the world in which he lives. He is cast adrift on a sea of relativity, with no horizon, no heavenly bodies to steer by, no chart to tell him where he is going, and no compass to point the way. Long ago Solomon concluded, “then I saw all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun. For though a man labors to discover it, yet he will not find it; moreover, though a wise man attempts to know it, he will not be able to find it.” (Ecclesiastes 8:17)
The most significant knowledge that any person can ever obtain is the knowledge of God:
- The knowledge of God imparts the knowledge of salvation. “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.” (John 17:3)
- The knowledge of God equips us for a true understanding of the world in which we live. “By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible.” (Hebrews 11:3)
- The knowledge of God enables a person to know himself properly in relation to God. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
It is impossible to live a life of purpose, meaning, and satisfaction in this world apart from knowing God. Furthermore, it is impossible to know God without making Him the determined object of your study. The technical term for this endeavor is “theology,” which means “the study of God.” Although no one can ever hope to know God fully, it is within the reach of every person to know God personally and sufficiently. Solomon instructs, “Yes, if you cry out for discernment, and lift up your voice for understanding, if you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures; then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.” (Proverbs 2:3–5) It should be the ongoing pursuit of every believer to “know God.”