The Difference Between Wisdom And Knowledge 3

There’s a fundamental difference between wisdom and knowledge, and the Bible points out that difference in many places. The main distinction, according to the Word, is that true wisdom only comes from the fear of the Lord; it’s a spiritual trait that originates with a proper relationship with God. On the other hand, knowledge is a mental trait and is dependent on self; intelligence, memory and the ability to think about varying concepts. The source of wisdom and knowledge is not the same. The actions of wisdom and knowledge are not the same. The purposes of wisdom and knowledge are not the same, and the results of wisdom and knowledge are not the same.

Can we see the difference between wisdom and knowledge in everyday life? Yes, we can. How many people do we know who are very smart, yet don’t seem to have even the most basic wisdom operating in their choices? I know plenty physicians, nurses and other healthcare workers who are just like that.

You have to be smart (knowledgeable) to get through school to earn those degrees, yet some of them have the worst personal lives you can imagine. I’ve seen them deal with divorce, drug abuse, lying, jealousy, and much worse. You can probably think of people just like them, can’t you?

The Difference Portrayed

I remember seeing the movie I, Robot, which actually makes a pretty good case for the difference between wisdom and knowledge. The premise of the movie is that robots have been given free reign to help humankind, but something (of course) goes terribly wrong. One of the underlying themes of the movie is that knowledge was applied without the wisdom to direct the application, and disaster ensued.

I like catchy phrases. One of the best lines in the show is when Will Smith’s character states, “You’re the dumbest smart person I’ve ever met!” He’s talking to Dr. Susan Calvin, one of the scientists who helped create the robots which are now the source of their problems. It’s a classic example of what were’ discussing, showing the reason why that catchy phrase fits in perfectly.

Some may ask, “Hollywood is one thing, but what examples does the Bible give to show that difference between wisdom and knowledge in action?” The answer to that is that there are plenty of examples!

Prov 10:8

The wise in heart will receive commands, but a prating fool will fall.  (NKJV)

These people are wise in heart, not because of the amount of schooling they have but because they seek God. They look for the wisdom that comes only from Him, and so they receive commands because those commands lead to life with Him. In contrast, the fool will fall. Instead of going to God they reject Him and His wisdom, relying on themselves and their own devices. And, just as in the movie, the end will not go well for them.

Prov 15:2

The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.  (NKJV)

Both the wise (those who seek after God and His ways) and fools (those who don’t) have the same knowledge, but the wise uses it rightly. Fools (because they trust in themselves and not the Lord) use the same knowledge, but they use it foolishly. The fool thinks they use knowledge rightly, but by abandoning the Giver of wisdom he or she only pours forth foolishness. Knowledge becomes a trap for them instead of the blessing God would use it for if they would only seek Him.

Ps 37:30-31

The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of justice. 31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide. (NKJV)

Notice that the righteous speaks wisdom and justice, and not simply knowledge. How do we know this is an example, or a distinction, of the difference between wisdom and knowledge? Because the law of his God is in his heart. What they speak of aligns with what God teaches in His Word. Even if this person makes mistakes the Lord will make it right because that person continues to seek God as he puts the law of his God [is] in his heart! He will get back on track with God’s will and Word, so none of his steps shall slide.

We see this truth proven every single day – in the religions of the world, in our own government, in individuals, in families, and even in the church! There’s plenty of knowledge floating around and more is added daily, but using knowledge the right way is only accomplished through seeking God.

Why do you think there are so many ethical concerns arising in the way we do things these days? It’s because we have all kinds of knowledge, but very few of us operate in wisdom! Cloning, physician-assisted suicide, stem cell research, abortion and many more concerns require us to address these complex issues. It’s apparent that we need God’s wisdom to know how to use knowledge rightly – otherwise, we will continue to make decisions with catastrophic consequences.

This is Part Three of a multi-part series. Keep watch for the next installment!