Written by Rachel Smith
“Speak your truth.”
I heard those words come from an administrator at my daughter’s school and it troubled me. Perhaps you have heard that expression. Schools, universities, politicians and churches have subscribed to this idea for quite some time. But consider its meaning. If we speak our truth instead of the truth, then truth becomes subjective to our perspective. The norm is to speak what you believe to be true rather than to ask, “What is truth?”
During the trial of Jesus Christ, the ruler Pontius Pilate asked this question. Yet many people do not inquire. They instead choose what is true for them. Two people believe opposite ways and both are considered correct. This quickly leads to confusion as the scale for sin or righteousness changes from one individual to the next. It allows too many gray areas and no absolutes. Without definite truth, there is no baseline. The boundary between good and evil is blurred more and more.
Truth is an unchanging fact of a matter, accurate at all times. It is a solid place to land when life is unsteady, a secure refuge when doubts come, safety when our convictions of truth are tested and a guide when decisions must be made. Truth is unyielding to scorn or personal preference. It does not bow to the loudest voice. Truth is independent of our feelings and heart-ties; it doesn’t need our ideas or apologies. It is applicable to everyone. Truth simply is.
Truth is absolute because it does not rest on the words of men but rather the words of God. Our minds are susceptible to error. There was a time when men were afraid to sail across oceans for fear they would drop off the end of the earth. Yet the world was still a sphere whether people believed it to be true. Man’s knowledge is so limited. Different societal norms come and go on a whim. Mankind is fickle. Yet God’s words are true, never changing! Psalm 119:89 For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled [secured, determined, no disputation] in heaven.
While humanity changes beliefs and moral stances regularly, we can open our Bible to find unaltered truth. What a comfort to have it under us in a society that is always trying to decide what is right or wrong. The Church of God rests on this solid foundation with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. It is His gospel. Our doctrine comes only from Him, not a man’s opinions.
Recently a Protestant denomination gathered to review their stance on gay marriage. A member of the congregation quoted Romans 1 as the guideline that they should use. The pastor scoffed and proclaimed that all scripture is open to personal interpretation. Therefore, the Bible was set aside as a measure in this weighty matter. This happened in an organization who claims to be followers of Christ, yet they set aside His doctrine for their own. 2 Timothy 4:3-4- Paul warned that people will no longer accept true doctrine but will turn away from it to their own lusts and fables.
The Word is clear; its judgments are sound. Confusion only comes when men put their handprint on it. 1 Corinthians 14:33 For God is not the author of confusion. God wants us to know and understand His words. He desires to reveal the truth to those who love Him. John 16:13- Christ promised to send his Holy Spirit to guide us into all truth.
The authority of truth is ours to use. As Christians, we can speak truth and let it do its perfect work. Charles Spurgeon once wrote, “Scripture is like a lion. Whoever heard of defending a lion? Turn it loose; it will defend itself.” From the time Christ first founded His church, unbelievers were there to oppose Him. Since then, many more have tried to dissuade souls from the gospel of Christ.
As we obey truth, we testify to its power. We bear witness of the truth and what it has done in our lives! Gladly receive it; it remains your stability and guide. Isaiah 33:6 For wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times.
