The Truth is a Serious Problem

It would seem to be the simplest proposition ever conceived: the truth is the truth and the truth is good and beneficial. But speaking the truth can be a dangerous thing, and insisting that there is such a thing as truth is now a debatable subject. There is an old (non-biblical) proverb which states, "If you speak the truth, have a foot in the stirrup." That proverb reveals something of the nature, and the sometimes dangerous consequences, of truth-telling; not everyone appreciates the truth. Some people just do not want to hear it, some are offended by it, some even respond violently to it, and some want to negate it by speaking "their truth." But if it is the truth which is being communicated, why would some respond so negatively to it? The fact is, truth often makes people uncomfortable because it challenges the falsehoods they hold so dear and perhaps even gives them or keeps them in power. The rejection of the truth can also make life very comfortable. As the Savior progressively revealed the truth concerning Himself, there were many who recognized the danger and responded more and more violently. The truth of the gospel can have the same effect even today. – Pastor Schlegel