Truth is the most precious commodity in the world. We should buy it and sell it not (Prov. 17:17). God’s word is truth absolute (Jn. 17:17). Each man needs to learn as much of God’s truth as possible and live it as much as is possible.
Truth is not determined by the way we look. Truth is not determined by the way we feel. Truth is not determined by speaking quietly. Truth is not determined by speaking loudly. Truth is not determined by speaking in a monotone. Truth is not determined by eloquence. Actually truth stands alone. A thing is either true or it is false.
We are not saying that the way one looks does not have an effect of people when he teaches the truth. We are not saying the tone of speech does not have something to do with the reception of truth at times. We are not saying that eloquence does not have something to do with the reception of the truth at times. The declaration of truth has to do with many considerations to be set forth.
We all should love truth at all times regardless of all else. If it is spoken in anger or spoken in love, we should receive it. If it is in rebuke or in reproof, then it should be accepted. If truth is given in exhortation, then we should receive it. If it is given in criticism, it should be accepted.
Men must learn to love the truth. David evidently did (Ps. 119:103). Some do not love the truth of God’s word (II Thess. 2:9-12). In the Bible we are told to reprove, rebuke, and exhort with the truth of God (II Tim. 4:1-3). I must confess to obey this command is not easy. When to do such and how to do such is left up to the judgment of each person.
I have had some rules I have followed through life when it comes to teaching and standing for the truth.
- How serious is the matter at hand?
- Would a rebuke be better than an exhortation?
- Am I dealing with a puppy dog or a full grown cur?
- Is my attitude right?
- Is my motive pure and acceptable to God?
- Am I moved by hate or the love of God and His word?
- Am I trying to get people to see God’s truth as set forth in the Bible?
- Am I interested in victory for self or for the Lord as was King David?
- Am I interested in trying to impress others with my knowledge instead of doing good for the Lord?
- Am I trying to get something off my chest or out of my craw?
- What would be best for all concerned when it comes to eternal salvation?
Dealing with truth is dealing with a most precious thing and it has eternal consequences and all of us should be careful when we write or preach relative to Bible truth.
Malcolm L. Hill
Founder, Tennessee Bible College
(January 12, 1934 – June 26, 2012)