To Tell the Truth

In the last few years much has been made of politicians having to defend themselves against criminal charges. Such is the case with the new senator from Illinois, Roland Burris. It seems we make a telling the truth only necessary if we have taken an oath. Many times that oath is closed with “so help me God.”

Christians are to be people of truth. Jesus said, “But let your communication be, Yea, yea; and Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil” (Matt. 5:37). Wouldn’t it be refreshing for all people to truthful? Yes, we are to “speak the truth in love” (Eph. 4:15). Jesus warned that some were of their father the devil (John 8:44). As he was a liar so also are they. God is the father of Christians. God cannot lie (Heb. 6:18) and lies should be put away from the lips of His children (Col. 3:9). We do not tell the truth because we have taken a formal oath. We tell the truth because it is the right thing to do.

Those who lie are in danger of eternal punishment (Rev. 21:8). If it is not repented of then an eternal hell awaits. Anyone who does not “love the truth” will be allowed to “believe a lie” (2 Thes. 2:10-11) and be lost. Telling a lie may come easy to some, but the consequences are devastating. There are those who are habitual liars. It seems that they do not know the truth nor do they care to speak the truth.

Only the truth can make one free (John 8:32). Only by following the truth can one go to heaven (John 14:1-6). Satan wants you to be a liar and be lost. God wants you to speak and obey truth.

Terry Claunch