Bound by untruths

Luke 11: 29 - 32

...they were afraid of the people...

How typical of those who want to sit on the fence. Those who refused to believe in John the Baptist were also not ready to consider the truth that Jesus' authority came from God too. But they were too cowardly to admit their unbelief. They were afraid of the people who had recognized John as a real prophet. They also wanted to avoid sharp confrontation with Jesus for not accepting John's testimony. It sounds exactly like the political situation we might find anywhere in the world. Half truths, half lies, fear of public opinion and slipping out of a God fearing commitment.

Untruths bind us, just like it did the people Jesus addressed in the Gospels. One untruth makes another one necessary to cover up the first. In the end, one grows defensive and has to find multiple excuses to avoid what is true and right.

"The truth will make you free" sounds a little trite at times but it has a depth of meaning that can best be experienced by living it. The joy and freedom of acknowledging the authority of Christ can be best described by those who have lived in courageous obedience. Many have surrendered material goods for the sake of God's truth while many have died for their stand for God's truth.

How we cooperate with God will determine the degree to which the spiritual life becomes lively and joyful.