Truthfulness
"Truthfulness
Bro Brendan | Date: 6 July 2025 | Matthew 5:33–37
This heartfelt and thought-provoking sermon challenges us to examine our relationship with truth — not just in what we say, but in how we live. Rooted in Jesus’ teachings from the Sermon on the Mount, we are reminded that truthfulness is not optional for the believer — it is a way of life that reflects Christ Himself.
🔹 The Problem with Oaths
“You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord.” — Matthew 5:33
Jesus addressed how people used oaths to appear honest, even when their hearts were not. He pointed to a deeper issue — truth should not depend on oaths.
🔹 The Value of Truth
“Do not swear at all... Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” — Matthew 5:34–37
Our words must stand on their own. Anything beyond honest, simple truth is from the evil one.
If our "yes" is not truly yes, we are being deceitful — aligning ourselves with Satan, the father of lies.
🔹 God Has Full Authority Over Us
“You are not your own... Glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” — 1 Corinthians 6:19–20
We cannot even swear by our own heads, because our lives belong to God. He is the rightful owner, and we are called to honour Him through truth in all we do.
🔹 Truthfulness Is Not Meant to Harm
We must be careful not to weaponise the truth.
It's not just what you say, but how you say it that matters.
“Speak the truth in love.” — Ephesians 4
“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt…” — Colossians 4:6
🔹 Withholding the Truth Can Also Be Wrong
“The wrath of God... against those who suppress the truth.” — Romans 1:18
Sometimes silence can be deceitful. If we stay quiet when the truth is needed, we may be neglecting our duty.
However, we must also be wise and discerning.
🔹 Jesus Withheld Truth — But Not Out of Dishonesty
Jesus told His disciples:
“You cannot bear them now.” (John 16)
He delayed revealing certain truths for their good, not to deceive — a powerful reminder that timing and love matter when telling the truth.
“Deliver the truth in love.” — Acts 2 shows the right moment and boldness to speak hard truth when hearts are ready.
🔹 Living Out Truthfulness in Daily Life
*Keep a Pure Heart
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...” — Colossians 3:16
*Avoid Excuses Like “White Lies”
“It is impossible for God to lie.” — Hebrews 6:18
There is no such thing as harmless dishonesty. God is pure truth, and He calls us to walk in His nature.
*When in Doubt — Pause and Seek Scripture
“Whatever you do... do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” — Colossians 3:17
Let God’s Word guide your speech and actions.
🔹 Admit Our Mistakes Promptly
“All have sinned...” — Romans 3:23
“Confess your trespasses... that you may be healed.” — James 5:16
Hiding our faults only leads to deception and unrest. But truth brings freedom, relief, and healing.
There is peace in being honest with God and others — because God already knows everything.
🔹 Encouraging a Culture of Truthfulness
“Let us consider one another... to stir up love and good works.” — Hebrews 10:24–25
Create an environment where honesty is celebrated.
Use the “sandwich method” when giving feedback — a gentle introduction, the truth in the middle, and love on both sides.
Truth should always be delivered with grace, not with a hammer.
When we live truthfully, we reflect God’s love to a watching world.
Final Reflection
✔ Speak truth.
✔ Speak it with love.
✔ Speak it in God’s timing.
✔ And always live it out consistently.
Truthfulness isn’t just about words — it’s about the condition of our heart.
When our hearts are aligned with Christ, our lives will speak truth, love, and grace — just like our Saviour.
Let us be known not just for what we believe — but for how honestly and lovingly we live.
