Since we should rely neither on the wisdom of the world nor on ourselves when it comes to right and wrong, what should we do? Note this clear and unambiguous counsel from the apostle Paul: “Quit being fashioned after this system of things, but be transformed by making your mind over, that you may prove to yourselves the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) Why do we need to prove to ourselves the will of God? In the Bible, Jehovah gives a straightforward but powerful reason, saying: “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” (Isaiah 55:9) Thus, rather than relying on so-called common sense or good feelings, we are admonished: “Keep on making sure of what is acceptable to the Lord.”—Ephesians 5:10.
Jesus Christ emphasized this need when he said: “This means everlasting life, their taking in knowledge of you, the only true God, and of the one whom you sent forth, Jesus Christ.” (John 17:3) The expression “taking in knowledge” has a far deeper meaning than simply “knowing.” According to Vine’s Expository Dictionary, it “indicates a relation between the person knowing and the object known; in this respect, what is known is of value or importance to the one who knows, and hence the establishment of the relationship.” To have a relationship with someone means more than just knowing who that person is or what his name is. It also involves knowing the likes and dislikes of that person, knowing his values, his standards—and honoring them.—1 John 2:3; 4:8.
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