10/29/2024
In our fast-paced, ever-changing world, it often feels like truth is just slipping through our fingers. It’s as if we’re navigating a maze where the walls shift and change, making it hard to know what’s real. When we hear statements like “That may be true for you, but not for me,” we’re left wondering: if truth is subjective, can we even talk about lies? If truth is non-existent, what does it mean to lie? These questions can be daunting but essential to our everyday lives.
When I look at the Gospel of John, I find clarity in these murky waters. Jesus speaks directly to the heart of the matter. In John 4:23-24, He tells us that true worship must be in "spirit and truth." Later, He reassures His followers, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31-32). Perhaps the most profound statement comes from John 14:6, where Jesus declares, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” Here, truth isn’t just an abstract idea; it’s a Person—Jesus Himself.
John’s Gospel mentions “truth” 23 times, compared to just once in the other three gospels. This isn’t just a stylistic choice; it underscores a powerful message that Jesus embodies truth in a deeply relational and transformative way. He is described as "full of grace and truth" (John 1:14), reminding us that truth is not cold or harsh but intertwined with grace and love.
So, what is truth? It’s not just a concept or philosophical debate; it’s found in the Person of Jesus Christ. This idea stretches back to the very beginning of the Bible. In Genesis, we see that “In the beginning, God” set the stage for everything that exists. John echoes this by stating, “In the beginning was the Word,” linking Jesus directly to the core of reality itself. Truth, then, is objective and exists outside of our opinions.
Yet, in today’s world, identifying truth can be challenging. How do we sift through it all with so much conflicting information? Take, for example, the overwhelming amount of advice on losing weight—everyone seems to have their own truth. It’s easy to feel lost amid all the noise. Francis Schaeffer introduced the idea of "two-tiered truth": the lower story of objective facts, like scientific truths, and the upper story of subjective experiences, which often leads to confusion about what’s really true.
This brings us to a critical question: Is Christianity simply a personal belief or a matter of public truth? Schaeffer asserts that Jesus embodies “True Truth,” which means His claims cannot be merely brushed aside as personal opinions. Jesus didn’t come to share a subjective perspective; He came as the embodiment of truth itself, inviting us to listen to His voice (John 18:37).
Understanding truth as objective and anchored in Jesus impacts our daily lives. It presents us with choices: We can reject this truth, which ultimately leads us away from Jesus, or we can embrace it and allow it to shape our lives.
For me, this journey has brought immense peace in the chaos of life, hope in times of despair, and a sense of community where I once felt isolated. Recognizing the beauty around us—whether in nature, art, or relationships—becomes easier when we understand the source of that beauty. As G.K. Chesterton wisely noted, "it’s a difficult place to be when you feel a profound sense of gratitude but have no one to thank."
The call remains clear: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Embracing the truth found in Jesus can transform our lives. Whatever lies hold you captive—whether they tell you you're not enough or that you'll never succeed—remember that freedom lies in the objective reality of His truth. Let it set you free and guide you toward a life filled with purpose, hope, and unwavering truth.
This blog is based on a sermon preached on October 27, 2024, from the Live No Lies series (#4, What is Truth?). For the entire message, listen here.
