The Importance of Truth: John 8:31-32; Ephesians 4:25; 1 John 1:6-7
Truth is a fundamental value in the Christian faith. Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32) He also claimed to be “the way and the truth and the life.” (John 14:6) As followers of Christ, we are called to live in the truth and to speak the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15)
But what is truth? And why is it so important? Truth is not just a matter of opinion or preference. Truth is the reality of God and his creation, revealed by his word and his Spirit. Truth is what corresponds to the facts and does not contradict them. Truth is what is consistent with God’s character and will. Truth is what sets us free from sin and error, and leads us to salvation and sanctification.
The Bible warns us about the dangers of lying and deception. Lying is contrary to God’s nature, for he is “the God of truth” (Isaiah 65:16) and “it is impossible for God to lie.” (Hebrews 6:18) Lying is also contrary to our new nature in Christ, for we have “put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24) Therefore, we are commanded to “put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.” (Ephesians 4:25)
Lying also has serious consequences for our relationship with God and others. The Bible says, “If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.” (1 John 1:6-7) Lying breaks our fellowship with God and hinders our prayers. (Psalm 66:18; Proverbs 28:9) Lying also damages our trust and intimacy with others. (Proverbs 12:22; Colossians 3:9)
Therefore, let us value the truth and seek it diligently. Let us study God’s word and listen to his Spirit. Let us test everything by the standard of Scripture and reject what is false. Let us be honest with ourselves and others. Let us confess our sins and repent of them. Let us speak the truth in love and edify one another. Let us glorify God with our words and deeds. For he who does these things will never be shaken. (Psalm 15:1-5)
