What does John 7:18 reveal about the importance of truth in teaching? Setting the Scene Jesus is in Jerusalem for the Feast of Tabernacles, teaching openly. Religious leaders question His authority. Into that tension He declares John 7:18, exposing the heart behind every message. What John 7:18 Says “Whoever speaks on his own authority seeks his own glory. But he who seeks the glory of the One who sent him is a man of truth; in him there is no falsehood.” Truth versus Self-Glory • Speaking “on his own authority” = self-generated message, self-generated honor • Seeking “the glory of the One who sent him” = submitting both content and motives to God • “Man of truth” = authentic, reliable teacher; “no falsehood” = doctrinal and moral integrity Marks of a Truthful Teacher • God-centered motive: glory to the Father, not personal applause (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:31) • Scriptural fidelity: message conforms to what God has revealed (2 Timothy 2:15) • Transparent life: no hidden compromise that undercuts credibility (1 Thessalonians 2:4-5) • Dependence on divine commissioning: speaks because sent, not because popular (Jeremiah 23:21-22) Why This Matters Today • Truth safeguards the flock from error (Acts 20:28-30) • Truth nourishes genuine faith; falsehood produces empty religion (1 Timothy 4:6-7) • Truth glorifies God, while self-promotion steals what belongs to Him (Isaiah 42:8) Scriptures Echoing the Same Theme • John 8:31-32—“If you remain in My word… you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” • James 3:1—“Not many of you should become teachers… we who teach will be judged more strictly.” • Ephesians 4:15—“Speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 4:5—“For we do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.” (All quotations) Practical Takeaways for Teachers and Learners • Examine motives: ask whether each lesson, sermon, or post seeks God’s glory or personal brand. • Anchor every point in Scripture: let the text, not personal opinion, drive the message. • Cultivate humility: remember you are a messenger, not the source. • Welcome accountability: invite mature believers to weigh your teaching against the Word. • Prioritize integrity: live the truth you teach; credibility flows from consistent obedience. |
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