Knowledge and Belief

I contemplated titling this "Knowledge versus Belief," but I don't think that the two ideas are opposing, but rather complementary. In particular, I would like to examine this statement, which evangelical Christians know: God lives in me (Galatians 2:19-20, 1 Corinthians 6:19-20). What do we believe about this statement?

The divide between knowledge and belief is great, and yet the two correlate directly. Scripture repeatedly warns against those who know the law, know the message of Christ, know His redemptive nature, and yet do not believe. Knowledge of salvation is not belief of salvation.

According to Paul, our bodies are indwelled by Christ and the Holy Spirit. If you're reading this, you probably already know this. I'm challenging you to believe it. The God of the universe, the Creator, the Almighty, the Head of the Church, the Spirit of healing, the Spirit of a faith that moves mountains lives inside of you, me, His people.

When we make the leap from knowledge to belief about this particular idea, we begin to live our lives in a way that boldly proclaims Christ for we have received grace and apostleship to bring obedience of faith for the sake of His name to all nations (Romans 1). We also portray our lives literally being the hands and feet of Christ. We are not consumed on our needs, wants, and even desires. We live by faith.

Perhaps of greatest consequence of believing this statement is that we can love. Without the presence of evil within, Christ can dwell within (Psalm 5:4) and He may love through us so that when others see us, they see the fruits of the spirit, with the building block of love (Galatians 5:22-25). When we know Christ lives in us, we easily talk about it. When we believe Christ lives in us, people easily see it.

Christ lives in you. Believe and live that truth.