Being Known of God: Love's True Foundation

Paul's treatment of knowledge and love in 1 Corinthians 8:1 reveals a paradox worth examining. The apostle deliberately substitutes "is known of Him" for "knows Him"—a rhetorical choice that elevates God's initiative above human capability. In this life, we can scarcely claim to know Elohim in any complete sense; it suffices to be the object of His knowledge, which itself implies intimate relation and His parental care.

Dean Stanley observed that this phrasing reflects the broader truth of redemption: every aspect of our spiritual understanding, especially our knowledge of God, is fundamentally His act rather than ours. We see this principle echoed in Galatians 4:9—"now that you are known by God"—and in John 10:15, where Christ declares, "As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father."

The man who loves God exhibits this reality through four manifestations: a devoted heart, sanctified thoughts, submission to God's Word, and delight in holy pursuits. To be known of God individually and personally—embraced with His loving attention and pledged final acknowledgment—becomes both profound delight and powerful incentive to holiness.

This verse stands as antithesis to verse 2: without love, no true knowledge; with love, knowledge becomes transformative. To be known by God transcends merely knowing Him. Every believer's privilege rests not in their apprehension of Elohim, but in His intimate, personal knowledge of them.