Diligent for God, but Not in Knowledge

by Neema Joshua | 1 June 2020 08:46 pm06

Shalom,

May the name of our Savior, the King of kings and Lord of lords, Jesus Christ, be blessed forever. Today is another day, and I invite you to reflect with me on the Word of God.

The Scripture says:

Romans 10:1-2 (ESV) –

“Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. For I bear them witness that they have zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.”

From this passage, we see that mere zeal or effort (“diligence”) is not enough. Without proper knowledge of how to truly worship God, our efforts can be in vain. This explains why many people, despite their dedication, feel distant from God—because zeal alone cannot replace understanding.

Today, we will examine two groups of people described in the Bible who are zealous for God but lack knowledge:

Those within the Christian faith

Those outside the Christian faith who seek God

We will look at both groups biblically and, if we recognize ourselves in either, we must humble ourselves and turn back to God before it is too late.

1. Christians Zealous but Lacking Knowledge
Consider Martha in Luke 10:38-42. Martha welcomed Jesus into her home, but she became overly busy with tasks: preparing meals, serving guests, fetching water—she labored for the Lord but missed what was most important. Meanwhile, her sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to His teaching.

Luke 10:41-42 (ESV) –

“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Martha’s example represents Christians who are industrious for God but neglect spiritual essentials—prayer, Bible study, listening to the Holy Spirit, proper baptism, and understanding God’s will. Their good works are commendable, but before God, they are incomplete because knowledge and spiritual growth are lacking.

This reminds us: it is better to focus on learning God’s Word, obeying it, and growing in faith than only performing visible acts of service.

2. Non-Christians Zealous but Lacking Knowledge
The second group includes non-Christians who sincerely believe they are honoring God but lack proper knowledge.

An example is the Apostle Paul before his conversion. Though zealous for God, he persecuted Christians, believing he was serving God (Philippians 3:6-7). Similarly, some Muslims or adherents of other religions may act zealously in worship, but without the true knowledge of God through Jesus, their efforts do not align with God’s plan.

Hosea 4:6 (ESV) –
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Proper knowledge is found in Jesus Christ, as all wisdom and understanding are in Him:

Colossians 2:3 (ESV) –

“In whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”

To worship God in truth, one must know Jesus:

John 14:6 (ESV) –

“I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Even Christians can fall into the same trap—prioritizing church activities, choir, or giving over prayer, Bible study, baptism, and receiving the Holy Spirit. This is the time to examine ourselves, repent, and seek to worship God in Spirit and truth (John 4:24), learning His will through Scripture.

Conclusion:

Zeal without knowledge is incomplete. Whether inside or outside the faith, it is knowledge of God through Jesus Christ that makes worship meaningful and pleasing. Let us strive not only to serve but to know God deeply through His Word and Spirit.

May the Lord bless you.

Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2020/06/01/diligent-for-god-but-not-in-knowledge/

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