Beyond the Weekend

September 25 | Speak Truth

September 25, 2014

Text: Ephesians 4.11-16

The Apostle Paul teaches that the Church, the Body of Christ, exists to help people become mature in their faith and walk with Christ (Ephesians 4.11-13). One of the chief ways we accomplish this is by speaking the truth to one another in love (Ephesians 4.15). In relation to our study in 1 Samuel 3, the boy Samuel had the incredibly difficult task of speaking the tough truth to his mentor Eli (1 Samuel 3.11-21).

Some people pride themselves in “speaking the truth,” which is really just a defense for being nasty towards others. This is not what Paul is talking about. The aim of our truth-speaking is to build others up. When we have others’ best interests in mind, we love them with the truth.

Sept-25-14

The reverse is also true. We can say we love someone, but if we withhold the truth from them in fear they may be offended, we’re not really loving them at all. We’re just coddling their insecurity.

Truth in an atmosphere of grace is the medicine we all need. The message of the cross is the perfect example: none of us likes to hear we’re separated from God for eternity because of our sin, but without grasping that reality we’d never understand and accept Christ’s gracious work on the cross.

As you welcome God into your day, consider how you can “speak the truth” as you ask God to give you the courage and compassion you need.

You Might Also Like