The act of declaring what we know is a significant theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the responsibility of believers to share the truth and wisdom they have received from God. This concept is rooted in the understanding that knowledge, especially divine knowledge, is not meant to be hoarded but shared for the edification of others and the glorification of God.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently underscores the importance of speaking truth and sharing knowledge. In the Old Testament, the prophets were often called to declare the words of the Lord to the people of Israel. For instance, in Jeremiah 1:7, God tells Jeremiah, "Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’ for to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak." This directive highlights the divine mandate to declare God's message, regardless of personal limitations or fears.

In the New Testament, the apostle Paul exemplifies the importance of declaring what one knows about the Gospel. In Acts 20:27, Paul states, "For I did not shrink back from declaring to you the whole will of God." This declaration underscores the apostolic commitment to fully communicate the truths of the Christian faith, ensuring that the message of salvation is clearly and comprehensively shared.

The Role of Testimony

Testimony plays a crucial role in the declaration of knowledge. Believers are called to testify to the work of God in their lives, thereby encouraging others and bearing witness to the truth of the Gospel. In 1 John 1:3, the apostle John writes, "We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us." This passage illustrates the communal aspect of sharing knowledge, as it fosters fellowship and unity among believers.

The Great Commission

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, is perhaps the most explicit biblical mandate for declaring what we know. Jesus commands His disciples, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This commission underscores the global and perpetual responsibility of Christians to share the teachings of Christ, ensuring that the knowledge of the Gospel reaches every corner of the earth.

The Power of the Spoken Word

The Bible also highlights the power of the spoken word in conveying knowledge and truth. Proverbs 18:21 states, "Life and death are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit." This proverb emphasizes the profound impact that words can have, both positively and negatively. When believers declare what they know, they have the potential to bring life, hope, and transformation to those who hear.

Responsibility and Accountability

With the privilege of knowledge comes the responsibility to share it. James 3:1 warns, "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." This verse highlights the accountability that comes with declaring knowledge, particularly in a teaching capacity. It serves as a reminder that those who share what they know must do so with integrity and faithfulness to the truth.

Encouragement and Exhortation

The act of declaring what we know is also a means of encouragement and exhortation within the body of Christ. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have made a habit, but let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Sharing knowledge and truth is a vital part of building up the church and preparing for the return of Christ.

In summary, the Bible presents the declaration of knowledge as a vital aspect of the Christian life, integral to the mission of the church and the spiritual growth of believers. Through the faithful sharing of what we know, we participate in God's redemptive work in the world.