Our Vocation in Christ, Part 2

Scripture

Ephesians 1:13-23

Readings from the Fathers

St. John Chrysostom

“’For the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him’ (I Corinthians 2:14). So then there is need of spiritual ‘wisdom,’ so we may perceive things spiritual, so we may see things hidden. That Spirit ‘reveals’ all things… But what is clear? That through His power we have believed that He has raised Christ.”

Additional Scripture

When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak of His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come. (St. John 16:13).

For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know (gnosis) in part, but then I shall know (epignosis) just as I also am known (epignosis). (I Corinthians 13:12)

Vocabulary

• Gnosis: knowledge, wisdom about something
• Epignosis: personal, true, intimate and full knowledge (v.17)
• Pantokrator: Head; Ruler of All (v. 22).

Questions

1. Name one thing you know ‘about’ and one thing that you know well through personal experience ? How would you describe the difference?
2. To whom is the Holy Spirit revealed and how (see especially vv. 13-14)?
3. How is the Church involved in this revelation? (See the text as well as Christ’s words above.)
4. What is His purpose in the life of the believer? (See esp. vv. 13, 14, St. John’s quote, verses above).
5. What is our “inheritance in the saints,” i.e., vv. 14, 18?

Application

• Think about your answer to question #1. What’s the difference between knowing (gnosis) God and knowing (epignosis) God? Why is epignosis vital to our vocation in Christ (see St. J.C. quote)?
• Think for a moment about your communion with God. Have you experienced more gnosis about God or epignosis of God?
• Name one thing you want to strive to start doing in order to cooperate more fully with the work of the Holy Spirit in your life and grow in your epignosis of God.

Pray that God would help you to cooperate with the work of the Holy Spirit in your life!