Text: John 18:37-38

What is truth? It depends on our perspective. Truth can be…

Comforting or Uncomfortable

• The word of God is intended to comfort us (1 Thessalonians 4:18)
• The truth is uncomfortable for some — convicts us of sin (John 16:8), exposes all of our flaws (Hebrews 4:12-13), calls us to sacrifice (Luke 9:23)

Encouraging or Discouraging

• The word of God is able to build us up (Acts 20:32); provides encouragement (Romans 15:4)
• Discouraging to others when it’s different than they expect and requires a change in attitude & life (Matthew 19:16-22)

Unifying or Divisive

• Unity is to be based on God’s word (John 17:20-21)
• Many believe teaching the truth is divisive; instead they opt for unity in diversity

Inclusive or Exclusive

• Truth is inclusive — the gospel is for all (Mark 16:15)
• Many think it is exclusive because not all will be saved (Matthew 7:13-14) — problem is not that truth is exclusive, but that they have excluded themselves from the truth

Good News or Bad News

• Message of grace, salvation, forgiveness, hope & eternal life
• The same message for others is a message of death (2 Corinthians 2:15-16) — speaks of judgment & punishment (Romans 2:16; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9)

Conclusion — it all comes down to whether we accept the truth or reject it

Read the article: What is Truth?