Know God: Why Relationship Matters More Than Information

Erin Long
Jan 12
2 min read

Mission Series | Week One | Joey Cook

Our church’s mission begins with a clear calling: Know God. Many people assume this comes naturally in a church setting, where sermons, Scripture, and spiritual conversations are common. But as Joey Cook reminded us this week, knowing facts about God is not the same as truly knowing God.

In Colossians 1, the Apostle Paul shows us that knowing God is relational, transformational, and deeply connected to Jesus and the Church. This passage invites us to move beyond information and into relationship.

We Are Created With a Desire to Know God

Colossians 1:9–12

From the beginning, humanity has been wired with a desire to know God. Paul prays that believers would be filled with the knowledge of God’s will, not merely intellectual understanding, but spiritual wisdom that shapes daily life.

According to Paul, knowing God leads to:

A life that pleases Him
Spiritual strength and endurance
Gratitude rooted in hope

Knowing God is meant to impact how we live, not just what we believe. True knowledge of God produces fruit in everyday faithfulness.

We Know God by Knowing Jesus

Colossians 1:13–20

If we want to understand who God is, Scripture points us directly to Jesus. Paul explains that Jesus is the image of the invisible God. In Him, we see God’s nature, authority, love, and redemptive power.

Knowing God does not come through spiritual curiosity alone. It begins with knowing Jesus, trusting His work, and surrendering to His leadership in our lives.

When we know Jesus, we know God.

Knowing God Leads to Life Change

Colossians 1:21–23

Paul reminds the church of who they once were, separated from God and stuck in sin. But knowing God through Jesus brings reconciliation and renewal.

A real relationship with God changes:

How we see ourselves
What we desire
How we live

Spiritual transformation is not instant perfection, but it is continual growth. When we know God, our lives begin to reflect His work in us.

God Reveals Himself Through the Church

Colossians 1:24–28

Knowing God is not meant to be a private experience. God reveals Himself through the Church as believers live out the gospel together.

The Church makes Christ visible to the world. Through community, teaching, and mission, people encounter who God is and how He works in real lives.

Knowing God draws us into community and sends us out with purpose.

Knowing God Is More Than Information

As we begin this four-week series on our mission statement, we are reminded that Christian faith is about relationship, not just knowledge.

To know God is to walk with Him, be shaped by Him, and reflect Him to others. This is the foundation for everything else we do as a church.

Discussion & Reflection Questions

What is the difference between knowing about God and having a relationship with Him?
How does Colossians 1 describe Jesus as the clearest picture of God?
Where have you seen knowing God lead to personal transformation in your life?
How has being part of the Church helped you grow in knowing God?
What is one step you can take this week to pursue a deeper relationship with God?