What steps can we take to avoid spreading false information, per Acts 21:34? Scripture Snapshot “Some in the crowd were shouting one thing and some another, and since the commander could not determine the facts because of the uproar, he ordered that Paul be taken into the barracks.” (Acts 21:34) What the Scene Reveals • A crowd formed quickly around rumor, not verified fact. • Confusion drowned out clarity; even a Roman commander couldn’t sort truth from noise. • Paul’s safety—and gospel witness—were endangered by unchecked misinformation. Steps for Staying Truthful 1. Seek First-Hand Facts • Listen personally before repeating (Proverbs 18:13). • Ask clarifying questions; don’t settle for “someone said.” 2. Weigh Multiple Witnesses • Scripture requires “two or three witnesses” (Deuteronomy 19:15; Matthew 18:16). • Compare accounts; consistency exposes error. 3. Slow Down Your Tongue • “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak” (James 1:19). • Delay posting, forwarding, or commenting until facts are clear. 4. Test Everything • “Test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Cross-check with reliable sources and God’s Word. 5. Commit to Truth Over Emotion • Crowds thrive on outrage; truth requires calm (Proverbs 29:11). • Refuse to amplify sensational claims that lack evidence. 6. Speak Truth in Love • “Put off falsehood and speak truthfully” (Ephesians 4:25). • Tone matters—accuracy and kindness go together. 7. Guard Reputations • False words can tarnish a brother or sister (Proverbs 22:1). • If you’re unsure, stay silent rather than risk slander. 8. Pray for Discernment • Ask the Spirit to expose deception and confirm truth (John 16:13). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 18:17 — “The first to plead his case seems right, until another comes and examines him.” • Exodus 23:1 — “You shall not spread a false report.” • Colossians 3:9 — “Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self.” Putting It Into Practice • Before sharing a headline, read the full article and verify sources. • In conversations, pause and ask, “How do we know this is true?” • When rumors swirl in church or community, gather facts privately, not publicly. • Model truthfulness so others learn to trust your words—and, ultimately, the Word. |
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