Knowledge vs. Opinion

BIBLICAL KNOWLEDGE or DISCERNMENT -- An understanding (judgment) supernaturally given to new-creation Christians by God the Holy Spirit via His Word concerning a specific proposition, statement, or point-of-view, the truth or falsehood of which is supported by the Word of God--the Bible. This produces genuine (qualitative) knowledge--philosophically referred to as 'epistemological certainty'. In theological terms, it is also referred to as "illumination" and is the sole possession of new-creation Christians.

We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory....but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2:6-10.

OPINION -- Opinion is a point of view regarding any proposition, statement, theory or event, the truth or falsehood of which is supported by evidence and fact. This evidence renders the viewpoint probable, but does not produce the degree of knowledge or certainty mentioned above. Opinions can and most often do contain some degree of bias and are speculative. Because men and women originally were created in the image of God, they possess a God-given right to form opinions, but only in those areas in which the Bible is silent. To assert a differing opinion where God has already spoken is arrogance and an act of independence/rebellion; it is sin.

PREJUDICE or BIGOTRY -- Prejudice is an adverse judgment formed beforehand or without knowledge or examination of the facts. Bigotry is generally the obstinate, unreasonable, emotionally-controlled attachment to a particular prejudice. Bigotry can masquerade as opinion and typically seek to justify itself. Because God is reasonable, just, and fair, both prejudice and bigotry are ungodly; they are sin.

Knowledge vs. Opinion

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