Bulletin
The Importance of Truth
It seems to be increasingly difficult to find these days. In the world of politics and media, filtering through all the misinformation, half-truths and blatant lies has turned into a full-time job. In the realm of religion, many are sincere, but still there is an astounding volume of contradictory teaching that leaves many scratching their heads. Even among those espousing faith in the teachings of Christ, differences abound on a wide range of fundamental issues.
It is possible for even the most conscientious person to harbor some misconceptions, but the Scriptures make it clear that some are susceptible to being misled because they lack a sincere love for truth (2 Thessalonians 2:8-10). Considering truth is the key to our spiritual freedom (John 8:32), it would be impossible to over-emphasize its importance. Here are some great reasons to make a love for truth a profound component of your character.
Truth goes hand-in-hand with justice. Innocent men are exonerated and guilty men are convicted to the extent that sufficient relevant facts are considered during the court proceedings. When men are willing to perjure themselves and unscrupulous lawyers are adept at hiding or distorting the truth, justice is thwarted. False witness is an abomination to God (Proverbs 6:19) precisely because the fate of men and women are at stake. Our devotion to truth should be unwavering.
Truth defines personal integrity. Men have often found it necessary to add weight to their credibility by accompanying their affirmation with an oath. Jesus teaches us that such oaths should be unnecessary (Matthew 5:34-37). Instead, I should foster the reputation among my fellows such that if I say yes, I mean yes. If I say no, I mean no. A man’s word should be his bond, but such confidence must be cultivated.
Wisdom is based in reality. A manager who surrounds himself with “yes men” who will tell him only what he wants to hear will make a lot of bad decisions. If we know what is good for us, we will insist on hearing the truth even when the truth is inconvenient, unpleasant, uncomfortable. We are kidding ourselves if we think that considering only narratives that fit our preferences will somehow alter reality. Only truth will contribute to our growth and progress.
Truth is the only path to spiritual sanctification and freedom. Jesus made it clear: “You will know the truth, and truth will make you free” (John 8:32). Freedom is what each of us desperately needs; freedom from the corruption of this world, freedom from the slavery of sin. Jesus prayed to His Father, “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Every person who claims to be a disciple of Jesus Christ must look to His New Testament as their rule of faith and practice. No other source will grant us sanctification and freedom.
The wise man encouraged his son to “buy the truth and do not sell it” (Proverbs 23:23) and we should resolve to do the same. Make the sacrifices necessary to find the truth and, once you have found it, make it the foundation of your life (Matthew 7:24). Sincere love for truth demands that you continue to grow in knowledge and determine never to compromise on the teachings of God’s word. Anything less bears consequences that are simply too grave to contemplate.
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