If the Truth Be Told: Breaking Down Assumed Truths and Biblical Truths
We are kicking off a brand-new service and sermon series titled If the Truth Be Told. How often have you started a sentence with the phrase, “Well, the truth is…”? We use it when we want to set the record straight, to clarify misconceptions, and to make sure that what is said is aligned with reality.
But what if the “truths” we’ve accepted aren’t actually true? What if some of the beliefs we hold dear, ones we may have heard for years, aren’t actually found in the Bible? Many people assume certain sayings or ideas come from Scripture, but in reality, they’re religious traditions, passed down through families or denominations, or simply opinions that have been widely accepted as truth.
Assumed Truth vs. Biblical Truth
Over the next few weeks, we’ll explore common sayings and beliefs that many assume come from the Bible but, in fact, do not. Our goal is to uncover absolute, 100% truth from Scripture, exposing falsehoods and replacing them with God’s Word. Let’s take a look at a few popular misconceptions:
1. “Cleanliness is next to godliness.”
Ever heard that one? Many people think this phrase comes straight from the book of Matthew, but it’s actually not in the Bible at all! While cleanliness is certainly beneficial (and sometimes much-needed advice), it’s not a biblical doctrine. It’s simply a saying that has been passed down and widely accepted.
2. “God will never put more on you than you can bear.”
This is another phrase many assume is biblical, but it’s actually misleading. The truth is, God will allow circumstances in our lives that are more than we can bear on our own. Why? Because He wants us to depend on Him. 1 Peter 5:7 says, “Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you.” God wants us to give our burdens to Him, knowing that He is far stronger than we are.
3. “Moderation in all things.”
Many people assume that God advocates moderation in all things, but that’s not biblical either. God doesn’t call us to live a lukewarm life; He calls us to be fully devoted to Him. Revelation 3:16 warns against being lukewarm, and instead, God desires wholehearted commitment from us.
4. “Adam and Eve ate an apple.”
We’ve all heard it—Adam and Eve ate an apple, and that’s how sin entered the world. But the Bible never actually specifies what type of fruit it was. It simply states that they ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:16-17). So, while it may have been an apple, it could have been something entirely different—like a fig, considering they later used fig leaves for covering (Genesis 3:7).
The Biggest Misconception: Working Your Way to Heaven
Perhaps the most widespread false belief is the idea that we can earn our way to heaven through good works. Many picture their life as a set of scales, hoping that their good deeds outweigh their bad ones. But if the truth be told, that’s not how salvation works.
The Bible is clear:
- Ephesians 2:8-9 says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
- Titus 3:5 affirms, “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.”
- Isaiah 64:6 declares, “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.”
Salvation is not about working harder or being “good enough.” It’s about surrendering to God’s grace. We must come to a point where we acknowledge that we cannot save ourselves and instead fully place our trust in Jesus Christ.
The Call to Action
If the truth be told, knowing the truth isn’t enough—we must respond to it. Salvation isn’t something we earn; it’s a gift we must receive. Just as a car buyer must sign on the dotted line to take ownership, we must say yes to Jesus.
So, have you accepted this truth? Have you surrendered your own efforts and placed your trust fully in Jesus Christ? The truth is, you cannot work your way to heaven—but through faith in Christ, you can receive the greatest gift of all: eternal life.
If you’ve been trusting in your good works, today is the day to let go of that untruth and embrace the truth of salvation through Jesus Christ. Say yes to Him today!
