We live in a world that is “Results Oriented”, which plays
into extreme scenarios of pragmatism. Now in fairness there are a few (very
few) instances where pragmatism can be exercised with wisdom and justice, but
those are the exceptions not the rule. Most “Pragmatic Practitioner’s” operate
in default, only considering the truth when it fits their agenda.
In the Gospels, Jesus numerous times informs and instructs
His followers to Love; Paul in 1 Corinthians 13, sums up the importance and
necessity of Love, but bear in mind that Love, never replaces Truth, it
supports Truth, and in every fashion is Truth.
As Christians (if we follow the Truth in obedience), there
are no options; we either lie, or we tell the truth! Withheld truth is not
telling the whole truth! Partial truth is not the truth! The “serpent”, Satan
himself did this in the Garden of Eden! A partial and/or withheld truth is
still a lie! Deception in any manner is actually a lie. There cannot be “white
lies” because a lie is still a lie, and is still inspired by the “Father of all
lies”, Satan himself!
The fact is: Speaking the truth IS Love! We don’t have to be
antagonistic in our delivery; we don’t have to judge in our statement of Truth!
We do however have a requirement to always speak the truth, regardless of the
outcome and consequences! For the Christian (especially pastors and teachers),
avoiding the Truth is never an option, rather consistently speaking the Truth
is a requirement.
I realize that I just offended a significant group of “Christians”,
but that’s what Truth does. The messenger, takes the heat, but the Truth stands
on its own. The Truth clearly spoken, in and of itself has the ability to
expose, judge and convict if properly, and does not require any assistance to
do so, but the messenger will take the heat, because in a fallen world, a world
that constantly seeks approval and validation for its sin; Truth is anything
but popular.
While we should be always “speaking the Truth in love”
(Ephesians 4:15), realize that not speaking the Truth, is anything but loving!
Jesus said, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father,
but by Me”. Jesus gave us but two options, to accept or reject Him, the Truth.
We need to hold each other accountable to the Truth, even
when it hurts; to do so is to love, and Jesus said we would be known for our
love one to another.
Something to meditate on……Have a blessed day!
