I took a class in college (UC Irvine) on Greek Mythology. We were taught all about the pantheon of gods that they worshiped in ancient Greece. I did pretty well in the class, I found the topic to be incredibly interesting. I would even say today that I know a lot about these "gods". However I would never for a second tell you that I believe the things I know about them to be true. In this case there is a clear distinction between my knowledge of a topic and my belief in it.
Along the same lines when I get up in the morning, check the weather on my phone, and see a 60% chance of rain I now have been clearly informed it is supposed to rain. So when i choose to put on shorts and a t shirt and leave my jacket behind I make a clear statement that I dont really believe it is going to rain, despite whatever knowledge i may have.
I use both of these examples to show the clear distinction between knowledge and belief. Belief, much like love, is irrevocably linked to action where knowledge is not.
For all of us I hope we realize how important that is in our faith. James 2:18 tells us "But someone will say, "you have faith and I have works." Show me your faith apart from works and I will show you my faith by my works." And also in John 14:15 Jesus himself makes it very clear to us how we are to love him when he says "If you love me, you will keep my commandments".
During this journey through circles I hope we challenge each other to grow, not only in knowledge of Jesus Christ, but more importantly in belief. Because if we can push each other towards a greater faith in Christ we will begin to see the power of Christ revealing itself in each one of us as he promised. "Nevertheless, I tell you the truth; it is to your advantage that i go away, for if I do not go away the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you" John 16:7
Im looking forward to the journey with all of you.
-Taylor
