It is popular in modern society to think of Christians as ignorant and those who rebel against God as being knowledgeable men of ‘science’.
When God gave over humanity to do things ‘not convenient’, he describes the response as “professing themselves to be wise, they became fools” (Romans 1:22).
The truth is that the reprobate mind is ignorant of the invisible things that are ‘clearly seen’ (Romans 1:20). This puts it squarely in a position without understanding.
While some of the smartest men in the world are ignorant of the simple truths of God, it is not unusual for simple men to lack understanding either. The Bible says to be simple is to lack understanding. The simple should seek wisdom. The wise should become fools (1 Cor 3:18).
Even religious people can live in ignorance as they ignore Bible doctrines, rightly divided. Many Bible teachers, preachers, and deacons remain ignorant of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mystery as first revealed to Paul.
The Bible says ignorance can be a sin as severe as rebellion or apathy. To be without understanding is an attribute of reprobate man (Rom 1:31).
The will of God today is stated to be that ‘all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth’ (1 Tim 2:4). This requires study (2 Tim 2:15).
None of us can know everything and yet God has revealed truth for us to understand. Ignorance is curable conveniently through the scripture and the Spirit:
“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” – 1 Cor 2:10
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” – 2 Tim 3:16
While some sins are punished in this life, ignorance of the truth has eternal consequences. It could cost you your eternal destiny.
Make sure your faith is established on the knowledge of the Bible rightly divided. If you still do not understand salvation then start to learn! There is no better time than now to cure ignorance. This is convenient and a good work.
Article Index Published: May 9, 2009
Last Modified: June 7, 2016