GETTING TO KNOW GOD:  HE IS TRUTH

Text:  "I am the way, the truth, and the life..." (John 14:6)

When I was growing up, I remember a game show called, "Truth or Consequences."  At the time, Bob Barker hosted the show.  A contestant would be asked a silly question, and if he or she could get the right answer in about 2 seconds, they would have to face the consequences --- typically something comical that the audience enjoyed watching.  Although many people will never appear on a game show, ultimately life itself comes down to an issue of truth or consequences. 

These days, our post-modern society promotes situational ethics and relative truth.  Basically, many people do not believe in absolute truth.  Absolute truth is the concept that there is definite truth and certain things are definitely right or definitely wrong, regardless of a person's beliefs, background or education. Most people reject this concept.  Instead, they believe in relative truth.  Relative truth is a belief that what is true for one person is not necessary true for another.  Those who embrace relative truth believe that truth is a personal matter and may vary in nature from person to person.  Such people strongly oppose the concept of absolute truth.

Despite the popular belief in relative truth, absolute truth is expected and demanded in our courts of law.  Absolute truth, not relative truth, is expected in the business world.  Absolute truth, not relative truth, is the foundation of strong relationships, including marriage.

Even though many believe in relative truth, they can't claim that their view is absolutely true --- if they did, they would be contradicting themselves 

Why is there such a push to get Americans to embrace relative truth?  Why are school children indoctrinated with this view?  The answer to these questions is simple.  Truth is more than an ideal.  Truth is a person.  The person of truth is Jesus Christ.  Opposition to Jesus Christ is a basic reason that relative truth is so popular.

Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life."  Jesus didn't just say that He told the truth --- He IS the truth! 

Our concept of truth emanates from God.  God is not only the source of truth; He is truth.  No one can honestly pinpoint an area of deception or dishonesty about God.  Truth permeates His being and actions.

Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."  Freedom is not the absence of bondage or oppression; freedom is the experience of knowing the truth.  When a man repents of his sin and places his faith Christ, he has a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, the Truth.  This encounter makes him free.  He is no longer a slave to Satan and his ways.

Many are afraid of the truth.  Truth is like light; it exposes ugly areas that we'd rather keep hid.  Some are fearful of truth because of the fact that truth will reveal the foolishness of their own mindset.  Obviously, numerous individuals fear truth because they want to avoid the unpleasant reality of sin's nature and the consequences of sin.  Most people would rather not be held accountable for their actions.

Since God is truth, all that He says and does is consistent with truth.  In fact, Jesus said that His Word is truth (John 17:17).  What God has to say about a subject may be unpopular or unpleasant, but it is true.

We can trust God because He is truth.  We are sure that the promises of God will be fulfilled because the One who made the promises is true.  Human relationships may crumble.  People may fail us.  Some will be dishonest to us.  In spite of all this, God remains true. 

Because He is truth, God does not tolerate lies.  When I was growing up, the harshest discipline I received from my parents came when I lied.  My parents rightfully demanded that I tell the truth all the time.  When I failed to be honest, I suffered severe consequences.  God is a faithful Father.  He expects and demands honesty from His children. 

Ultimately, every person will stand before God.  God's verdict will be based upon truth.  He will not be swayed by deceit or bribes.  Truth will prevail on that day, because the Judge is truth.

Most people reject the truth because they reject Jesus.  Sadly, many will not realize that they've fallen for the devil's lies until it is eternally too late.  That is why Christians should be zealous to proclaim the Gospel --- and share the truth with those who need it most.

Truth can be found, but only in the person of Jesus Christ.  He is the One who said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."   Believe and receive the truth & you'll live.  Reject the truth and you will perish.

It's all a matter of truth or consequences.