In what ways can we discern truth in a world of moral relativism? Pilate’s Moment, Our Moment John 18:38 records the Roman governor looking straight at Jesus and saying, “What is truth?”. Pilate then walks away, unwilling to wait for an answer. His shrug captures the spirit of moral relativism: truth treated as elusive, optional, or merely personal preference. Scripture speaks differently, presenting truth as objective, knowable, and anchored in the person of Christ. Why Relativism Collapses • Relativism makes every individual the final arbiter, yet Jeremiah 17:9 declares the human heart “deceitful above all things.” • Judges 21:25 shows where that path leads: “Everyone did what was right in his own eyes,” and chaos followed. • Without a fixed standard, right and wrong become shifting sand; society drifts, just as Ephesians 4:14 warns against being “tossed by the waves and carried about by every wind of teaching.” Scripture: the Unchanging Reference Point • Psalm 119:160 — “The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever.” • John 17:17 — “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — Every line of Scripture is “God-breathed” and equips believers “for every good work.” The Bible stands as literal, authoritative revelation, providing a fixed north star amid cultural drift. Jesus: Truth Personified • John 14:6 — “I am the way and the truth and the life.” Truth is not merely a principle but a Person. • Colossians 2:3 — In Christ “are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” The closer we walk with Him, the clearer truth becomes. Practical Steps for Discerning Truth Today 1. Start with explicit Scripture. If a claim contradicts the Bible, it is false. 2. Listen for the Spirit’s confirmation. John 16:13 promises the Spirit “will guide you into all truth.” 3. Compare teaching with the whole counsel of God, not isolated verses (Acts 20:27). 4. Observe the fruit. Truth produces the Spirit’s character (Galatians 5:22-23); error breeds confusion or sin. 5. Seek godly counsel. Proverbs 11:14 affirms safety in the multitude of wise advisers. 6. Test motives. James 3:14-17 contrasts selfish ambition with wisdom “pure, peace-loving, considerate.” 7. Hold fast, yet stay teachable. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 directs believers to “test all things; hold fast to what is good.” Living Steadfast in Truth Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word as “living and active,” able to judge thoughts and intentions. Anchored in that Word and in Christ Himself, believers can stand firm, speak with clarity, and love with conviction even when relativism floods the culture. |
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