How can we guard against spreading falsehoods like in Matthew 28:13? Setting the Scene “and instructed them: ‘You are to say, “His disciples came by night and stole Him away while we were asleep.”’ ” (Matthew 28:13) The chief priests bribed the guards to spread this fabricated story so people would ignore the literal, bodily resurrection of Jesus. Scripture records the lie so we can recognize how quickly falsehood can travel—and how seriously God takes truth. Why Falsehoods Spread So Easily • Fear of consequences (the guards feared punishment) • Desire for approval or reward (they took the bribe) • Reluctance to face inconvenient truth • Pressure from authorities or culture • Careless repetition without verification The Heart Checks That Keep Us Honest • Remember God’s character: “I am the way and the truth and the life” (John 14:6). • Acknowledge Scripture’s authority: “Your word is truth” (John 17:17). • Cultivate reverence for the ninth commandment: “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” (Exodus 20:16). • Love your neighbor enough to guard his reputation (Romans 13:10). • Recognize Satan as “the father of lies” (John 8:44); any lie allies us with his agenda, not Christ’s. Practical Steps to Guard Against Falsehood • Verify before sharing—check original sources, context, and facts. • Slow down—refuse to pass along juicy information in the heat of the moment (Proverbs 19:2). • Speak only what builds up (Ephesians 4:29). • Let Scripture shape your words—recite verses like Proverbs 12:19 and Colossians 3:9 before posting, texting, or speaking. • Invite accountability—surround yourself with believers who lovingly correct you (Proverbs 27:6). • Confess quickly when you err—own the mistake, correct the record, and seek forgiveness. • Keep an eternal perspective—remember we will give an account “for every careless word” (Matthew 12:36). Verses Worth Memorizing • Proverbs 12:19 – “Truthful lips endure forever, but a lying tongue lasts only a moment.” • Ephesians 4:25 – “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are members of one another.” • Psalm 15:2 – “He who walks with integrity and practices righteousness, who speaks the truth from his heart.” • John 8:31-32 – “If you remain in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Closing Encouragement The resurrection account proves that no lie—however well-funded or strategically spread—can overturn God’s truth. As followers of the risen Christ, we honor Him by loving truth, speaking truth, and refusing to traffic in anything less. |
    |