True or False?
Imagine scrolling through your social media feed. Between the memes, news, and endless opinions, it’s hard to know what’s real. In a world where misinformation is everywhere, the call to focus on “whatever is true” from Philippians 4:8 feels more urgent than ever. But Paul’s instruction isn’t just about sorting fact from fiction in our headlines but about shaping our hearts and minds to reflect the very character of Jesus.
Think On Whatever is True – What Does Paul Mean?
Truth sets the foundation for everything else. In Scripture, truth isn’t just about accuracy or honesty; it’s about aligning our hearts and minds with the reality of God as revealed in His Word and in Jesus Christ Himself.
Truth, in the biblical sense, is deeply theological. It’s not just “not lying”-it’s about seeing and living in the world as God sees it. God Himself is called the “God of truth” (Psalm 31:5), and Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). Truth is not a concept – it’s a person, and that person is Jesus. To think on what is true is to fill our minds with God’s reality, His promises, and His perspective.
Jesus, the Living Truth
Jesus didn’t just talk about truth; He lived it. In His interactions, He spoke truth even when it was costly. He confronted the religious leaders with their hypocrisy (Matthew 23), spoke honestly with the woman at the well about her life (John 4), and offered grace and truth to Zacchaeus, leading to a life transformed by honesty (Luke 19:1-10). Jesus’ life was a continual demonstration of what it means to walk in truth – He was transparent, consistent, and faithful to the Father’s will.
In John 3:21, Jesus says, “But whoever practices the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God”. Practising truth means living openly before God and others, allowing our actions to be shaped by God’s standards, not by the shifting values of culture.
The Early Church: Practising Truth Together
The early church took truth seriously, not just as a doctrine, but as a way of life. In Acts, we see believers devoted to the apostles’ teaching, living with integrity, and holding each other accountable. When Ananias and Sapphira lied about their giving, their story became a sobering reminder of how seriously God views truth (Acts 5:1-11). Their deception wasn’t just a private matter, it threatened the integrity of the whole community.
On the other hand, stories like Zacchaeus show the power of truth to transform. When Zacchaeus met Jesus, he didn’t just confess his dishonesty; he made restitution, committing to live truthfully going forward. The early church’s commitment to truth was evident in their relationships, generosity, and bold witness in a sceptical world.
Application
Here are some practical steps to consider applying at this stage:
- Immerse Yourself in God’s Word: The Bible is our ultimate standard of truth. Regular reading and meditation help us discern God’s reality from the world’s distortions
- Evaluate What You Consume: Not everything we read, watch, or listen to is true or helpful. Ask: Does this draw me closer to God? Does it reflect His character? If not, it may be time to change your media habits
- Practice Honesty in All Things: Let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no (Matthew 5:37). Speak truthfully, even when it’s uncomfortable. Integrity builds trust and reflects Christ to others.
- Live Transparently: Don’t hide your struggles or pretend to be someone you’re not. Bring your life into the light, where God’s grace can transform you
- Encourage Truth in Community: Surround yourself with people who value truth and will lovingly hold you accountable. The early church grew strong by living out truth together.
- Reject What Is False: Be vigilant about rejecting lies-whether in your own thinking, in relationships, or in the culture around you. Satan is the father of lies, but Jesus is the Truth
A few years ago, a popular phrase emerged: “speak your truth.” While it’s important to be authentic, as followers of Jesus, we’re called to something deeper – to align our lives with the truth. When we fix our minds on whatever is true, we become people of substance in a world of spin. We become more like Jesus, who is the Truth, and we shine His light into every corner of our lives.
The next time you scroll your feed or face a tough conversation, remember Paul’s words. Let’s be people who think on, speak, and live out whatever is true - for the glory of Jesus and the good of His Kingdom. This is the way to live.
True, not False.
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
Next Steps
Reflect: How do you value truth in your life – how is that expressed?
Pray: Father, thank you for revealing the Way, the Truth and the Life in your Son, Jesus Christ. Keep my mind focused on Him as I work out the real from the fake, for your glory.
Act: This week, make a note of what happens as you consciously focus on what is true, especially at the times when you’re tempted to yield to different guises of falsehood.
