Topical Bible: Truth: They Who Speak are the Delight of God

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Introduction

Truth, as a fundamental attribute of God, is a central theme throughout the Bible. It is not only a divine characteristic but also a moral imperative for believers. Those who speak truth are considered to be in alignment with God's nature and are thus a delight to Him. This entry explores the biblical understanding of truth, its significance, and the blessings associated with speaking truth.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently emphasizes the importance of truth. In the Old Testament, truth is often associated with God's faithfulness and reliability. Deuteronomy 32:4 declares, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." Here, truth is intertwined with God's justice and righteousness.

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies truth. John 14:6 records Jesus saying, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This statement underscores the centrality of truth in the Christian faith, with Jesus Himself being the ultimate revelation of truth.

The Delight of God in Truthful Speech

The Bible teaches that God delights in those who speak truth. Proverbs 12:22 states, "Lying lips are detestable to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight." This verse highlights the contrast between deceit and truthfulness, with the latter being pleasing to God.

In the Psalms, the psalmist prays for guidance in truth, recognizing its importance in a relationship with God. Psalm 25:5 says, "Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; all day long I wait for You." This prayer reflects a desire to live in accordance with God's truth, which is a source of divine delight.

Truth in the Life of Believers

Believers are called to be people of truth, reflecting God's character in their lives. Ephesians 4:25 instructs, "Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one another." This command emphasizes the communal aspect of truth, where honesty strengthens the body of Christ.

The Apostle Paul further encourages believers to focus on truth in Philippians 4:8 : "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." This exhortation highlights the transformative power of truth in the believer's mind and actions.

Consequences of Truthfulness

Speaking truth brings about divine favor and blessings. Psalm 15:1-2 asks, "LORD, who may dwell in Your tent? Who may reside on Your holy hill? He who walks with integrity and practices righteousness, who speaks the truth from his heart." This passage associates truthfulness with the privilege of dwelling in God's presence.

Moreover, truthfulness fosters trust and credibility among people. Proverbs 16:13 affirms, "Righteous lips are a king’s delight, and he who speaks honestly is beloved." This proverb illustrates the value of truth in leadership and relationships, where honesty is cherished and rewarded.

Conclusion

The biblical call to truthfulness is clear and compelling. Those who speak truth align themselves with God's nature and become a source of delight to Him. Through truthful speech, believers not only honor God but also build trust and integrity within their communities.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 12:22
Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The God of Peace
... Brethren, again I say, for the gospel's sake, for the truth's sake, that we may
laugh at our enemies, and rejoice with joy ... They asked me to speak to the ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the god of peace.htm

Preface
... will they be content with correct "interpretations" of truth. ... They minister constantly
to believers who feel within their ... I trust I speak in charity, but the ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tozer/the pursuit of god/preface.htm

Proof that God did not Appoint the Levitical Dispensation for his ...
... He adds, "For in these things I delight, says the ... Speak ye the truth every man to
his neighbour, and ... thy tongue from evil, and thy lips that they speak no guile ...
/.../irenaeus/against heresies/chapter xvii proof that god did.htm

The Full Measure
... And thus does S. Paul speak of it, of this true and blessed ... simply and wholly and
only, to Him who is the living Truth. They are content to live in lower things ...
/.../bevan/three friends of god/chapter xxv the full measure.htm

A Knowledge of God
... of daily life, were all linked with the words of truth, that His ... you." And He explains
Himself by saying, "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit ...
//christianbookshelf.org/white/steps to christ/chapter 10 a knowledge of.htm

That we have not Naturally the Power to Love God Above all Things.
... their lives before the honour due unto God, they grew vain ... Plato who understood so
clearly the truth of the ... you, to see this excellent philosopher speak of God ...
/.../francis/treatise on the love of god/chapter xvii that we have.htm

John Chapter viii. 28-32
... done them, because He said to them, "The truth shall make ... And slaves truly they were;
and He explains to them what ... that slavery it were too long to speak to-day ...
/.../augustine/homilies on the gospel of john/tractate xl john chapter viii.htm

Joy, a Duty
... Notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached;
and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will ... nay, they must speak their joys ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 41 1895/joy a duty.htm

The Cloud
... deny that God has shown us things which they desired to ... to forget the other part
of the truth of God ... fact, that very frequently, amongst those who speak most of ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/bevan/three friends of god/chapter xxxvii the cloud.htm

Psalm CXL.
... to speak the truth, toileth not, for truth herself speaketh ... For when must thou needs
speak and teach? ... and he standeth not; therefore said he, "they shall hunt ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm cxl.htm