Truth-telling in our culture is no longer held to the same moral standing as Scripture declares it to be. Sad to say, many church attendees today do not even know what Scripture says about it and the consequences of not being truthful.
I personally know an evangelical pastor, of what some classify as a megachurch, who is a habitual liar. He is also a narcissist that spreads lies to discredit anyone he feels is a threat to expose him. Over and over, he paints fundamentally false portraits of people and events to flatter himself and disgrace others. He has hurt many people but does not care about anyone but himself. I have confronted him many times, desiring he truly repent and change his ways, to no avail.
This pastor has been at the same church for nearly two decades. As a classic narcissist, he constantly runs through staff. No one can work with him any amount of time. Many within the church and the church board know his problems with lying and narcissism but have not held him accountable. Some cover-up for him. If we have this in the leadership of evangelical churches, what can we expect of evangelicals? How can we expect them to hold truth-telling to the highest standard?
What does Scripture tell us about truth-telling?
For sake of space, allow me to give the last Scripture in the Bible that addresses truth-telling:
“But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8 ESV, emphasis added).”When is the last time you heard that preached in the church?
We desperately need a faith and justice revival in our day. It must begin in the church before it can flow throughout the land, impacting lives and politics.
I'm praying.
“Heavenly Father, I ask you again today to send a faith and justice revival in our day that will sweep through the church and across the land. Please convict us all of our many sins. Raise up Godly leaders that will strive to follow Christ instead of the flesh and all of its flaws. Begin this work in the church. Let it flow out of the church-house and into the neighborhoods, cities, states, and nation. Let righteousness and justice roll! I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen."Beloved, the truth matters. Love truth again. Be a truthful person. Take a stand for truth and hold truth-telling to the highest Biblical standard. Be a part of the faith and justice revival we desperately need to sweep our land.
Know that you are loved,
gaj