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What Jesus Says About Truth

Years ago there was an ominous tag line to a television show: "the truth is out there."  The implication, which resonates still today, is that truth is very hard to find.  In a world where truth seems to be elusive, here is a look at what Jesus had to say about truth and where to find it.  These words bring me to center, comfort me, and lead me to act accordingly.  I pray they will do the same for you today!

When Jesus began teaching and revealing the heart of scripture to those around him, there were many who questioned his authority.  Jesus assured them his authority came from Father God and from himself as the Son of God.  This was hard to believe for some, like it can be for us, so Jesus encouraged them: To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32)  There is all kinds of freedom in knowing the truth, in placing your faith and trust in Jesus.

On his last night together with the disciples before his arrest, Jesus tries to prepare them for what is coming.  Part of that preparation is to tell them that his death is necessary, but that they will still have a future together--he is preparing a place for them.  The disciples do not understand, and Thomas questions how they will find their way.  Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life." (John 14:6)  In this moment of uncertainty, Jesus clarifies that he is not only the direction in which to move (way), but also the foundation on which to stand (truth) and the source of all we need (life).  

Another part of the preparation was to comfort his disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus actually tells the disciples that it will be better for them when he is gone because they will have access to the Holy Spirit, which should also be a comfort to us because we have that same access!  Jesus says, "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth."  (John 16:13)  ALL the truth.  We can know the truth--whatever we need to know--if we look in the right place, if we have the right guide.  The truth is not shrouded in mystery, it is revealed by the Holy Spirit.  

Again, toward the end of Jesus' time on earth, he prayed for his disciples and for all believers.  The whole prayer is recorded in the  John chapter 17, but I am drawn to one line in particular: "Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth."  (verse 17)  The word of God is truth.  And by the truth, we are sanctified: set apart, purified, approved, blessed, made holy.  Whatever your inner need for acceptance and love and meaning and purpose and...it is found in the word of God.  This is why we read and study scripture; in the Word we discover more of God, more of ourselves, then more of God, then more of me, and so on.

There is so much to learn about truth.  We tend to seek it in the news, from the authors and celebrities we admire, or even from trusted friends, but truth is ultimately found in the person of Jesus, in the word of God, in the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  There is comfort and freedom and hope that comes from knowing the truth.  It is well worth the time to read and study for yourself.

Guide me in your truth and teach me,
for you are God my Savior,
and my hope is in you all day long.

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