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<...Go back

Can you comment on honesty and religion?


Introduction. The older this preacher grows, the more he concludes honesty / dishonesty is the biggest problem in religion. "Honesty" is defined as "truthfulness, sincerity, freedom from deceit or fraud" (Random House College Dictionary, pg. 635). The scriptures teach we are to be truthful, sincere, and free of deceit (Col. 3: 9; Rom. 6: 17, 18).

Honesty in accepting and applying the truth. God's truth has been revealed in His word (John 16: 13; Jude 3 ). All man needs to know has been supplied (John 16: 13; 2 Pet. 1: 3). All can understand the truth and understand it alike, if they so desire (cf. Eph, 3: 1-5). The truth, the word, shall be the standard used by Jesus Christ in the last day (John 12: 48; Rom. 2: 6-9). God's teaching relative to initial salvation, how to live, Jesus' church, etc. can be understood and applied (Acts 2: 36-38; Rom. 10: 10; 2 Cor. 7: 1; Matt. 16: 18).

Honesty in our dealing one with another. The scriptures are replete with instruction as to how man is to treat his fellow man (Matt. 7: 12). There is to be no stealing, slandering, and unkindness (Eph. 4: 28; Jas. 4: 11; 1 Pet. 3: 8). Just think what drastic changes (for the better) there would be if such honesty were universally practiced, if only by religious people!

Honesty is an absolute necessity in religious matters. Honesty inherently entails a love of the truth both intellectually and practically. Paul said condemnation will come to those who do not love the truth. In addition, he, through the Spirit, wrote that those who do not love the truth shall receive a strong working of error that they should believe a lie (2 Thes. 2: 10-12). Honesty requires that we be free of prejudice, selfishness, and pride. Honesty necessitates we accept the proper external standard and guide (God's word) and apply it to our lives.
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