To know God and to make him known - 7 March 2025
Benescke Janse van Rensburg
By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death: ‘He could not be found, because God had taken him away.’ For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God. Hebrews 11:5, NIV
Enoch is a biblical figure I would like to meet in heaven. Mentioned only three times in the Bible – in Genesis 5:18-24, Hebrews 11:5 and Jude 1:14-15 – his story unfolds in just nine verses. Yet, these verses are enough to tell us everything we need to know about his character.
Enoch lived during a difficult era when humanity strayed far from God and dwelled in sin. However, he maintained a close relationship with God, to such an extent that God took him to heaven without him experiencing death, similar to Elijah. This trustworthiness placed Enoch among the great heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11, celebrated for living in accordance with God’s desires.
The essence of our existence and our relationship with God can be seen in Enoch’s narrative. We are created to know God and to make him known. Enoch did not aim to achieve grand earthly feats for God; instead, he focused on being in his presence and living in obedience to God. This faithfulness fostered a deep connection with the Lord.
Enoch exemplified what Jesus spoke about in Matthew 5:13-16: “You are the salt of the earth ... You are the light of the world ... In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Paul echoes this sentiment in Philippians 1:21, stating, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”
May we refocus our lives on the primary mission: to know God and to make him known.
Prayer: Father God, thank you for creating me to foster a relationship with you. Help me not to lose sight of you amid my endeavours to serve you. I pray that your Holy Spirit will guide me to know you as Enoch did, living a life of obedience to your will. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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