This morning as I read, I was reminded of a phrase I use on a regular basis in my training classes, “Ignorance is okay, but ignorance by design is not”. I am sure this brings questions as to what I am referring to. Well, it is okay to not know something, but if you choose not to know, then there is a problem. How often is it that we simply choose not to know.
“17And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers.” — Acts 3:17 (ESV)
Peter, speaking here in the portico of Solomon, is addressing the people after they have wondered in amazement at the healing of a beggar. Peter is referring back to the trial and crucifixion of Jesus and the acts of ignorance of the people as they carried them out. In this instance as relates to the beggar’s healing, Peter reminds them that they indeed are not ignorant to that which healed the man, just as they were not really ignorant of the suffering and death and resurrection of Jesus.
“18But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled.” — Acts 3:18 (ESV)
How much that goes on in my life that I claim not to know about and yet, when I look back at past events and recordings, was it “foretold” and I did not log the in information nor did I heed it. I have to remember that just because I do not know or remember something does not absolve me of the consequences of my actions. I have to be responsible to dig for understanding and take aim to know and remember going forward.
I choose to know and therefore I will know. I cannot go through life with the excuses of not knowing for as I said, “ignorance is okay, but ignorance by design is not”. I may not know, yet I have a responsibility to learn and remember.
What is going on in your life that you claim to now know? Are you sure that you did not hear or learn it somewhere and are simply not recalling? What if you took every opportunity to learn and know and work to remember so that you will not be acting out of ignorance?
Trevor's Thoughts 