28. The Gospel Establishes Truth

In this episode Anna and I walk through how the Gospel lovingly establishes a basis for truth in our lives, which in turn lets us make intentional decisions regarding our choices, tech, and loving action.The Gospel does this by: Showing us the truth Freeing us in truth Freeing us for the good works God has planned for us.In his teaching Ravi Zaccharius returned repeatedly to what he said was the saddest account in the whole Bible - Pilate interviewing Jesus. One on one he asks Jesus if he is a King. Jesus asks him if this this rhetorical, or if he’s actually seeking truth (John 18:34). Pilate’s response is to glibly ask “What is truth?” and then walks away (John 18:38).The Truth, the one that will set us free, is God. (John 8:32)A brief aside - I’ve found conversations about big ideas like “truth” and “reality” can be very confusing, especially when people don’t share the same groundwork for understanding. So I can point to God’s truth, but if a person says “there is no god” then we need a simpler place to start. John Mark Comer gave the best definitions I’ve heard: Truth is that which best corresponds to reality. Reality is that which happens when you’re wrong.So what is the truth? That we are slaves to sin. We don't get to pick what we want to do - we do what our desires tell us. (John 8:34, Romans 6:6-7) “Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.” / “We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin. For one who has died has been set free from sin.”Set us free how? By the death and resurrection of Jesus. (John 3:16)Set us free why? To bring God glory and participate in the work he’s planned for us (Romans 8:29, Eph. 2:10).