What Is Truth? Series

WHAT IS TRUTH?

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 18:28-40

Key Verse: “Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.” (John 18:38)

Supporting Texts: John 14:6; John 17:17; Psalm 119:160; 2 Timothy 3:16-17

INTRODUCTION

In John 18:38, Pontius Pilate asked one of the most profound questions ever recorded: “What is truth?” He asked this question while standing face to face with Jesus, who had already declared Himself to be the truth. Yet, Pilate failed to recognise the answer standing before him.

This moment reflects the confusion that often exists in the world concerning truth. Many people seek truth in philosophy, human reasoning, or personal opinion, yet true and absolute truth is found only in God.

For believers, understanding truth is essential because it shapes our beliefs, decisions, and way of life. Truth is not merely an idea or concept; it is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ and in the Word of God.

1. TRUTH IS FOUND IN JESUS CHRIST

Jesus is not just a teacher of truth; He is the embodiment of truth.

a. Christ Is the Truth (John 14:6)

Jesus declared Himself to be the truth and the only way to the Father.

b. The Full Revelation of God (Hebrews 1:1-2)

Jesus reveals the nature and will of God.

c. Truth Made Manifest (John 1:14)

The Word became flesh and dwelt among us.

d. Unchanging Truth (Hebrews 13:8)

Jesus Christ remains the same forever.

e. Biblical Example:

Pilate stood before Jesus, the embodiment of truth, yet failed to recognise Him (John 18:37-38).

2. THE WORD OF GOD IS TRUTH

God’s Word is the standard by which all truth is measured.

a. Scripture Is Truth (John 17:17)

Jesus declared that God’s Word is truth.

b. Inspired by God (2 Timothy 3:16)

Scripture is given by inspiration of God.

c. A Guide for Life (Psalm 119:105)

The Word directs believers in the right path.

d. Eternal and Unchanging (Psalm 119:160)

God’s Word stands forever.

e. Biblical Example:

The Bereans searched the Scriptures daily to confirm the truth of what they were taught (Acts 17:11).

3. TRUTH SETS PEOPLE FREE

One of the greatest benefits of truth is freedom.

a. Freedom from Sin (John 8:32)

Knowing the truth brings liberation.

b. Freedom from Deception (Colossians 2:8)

Truth protects believers from false teachings.

c. Freedom from Fear (2 Timothy 1:7)

Truth establishes confidence and boldness.

d. Freedom to Live Righteously (Romans 6:18)

Truth leads to a life of righteousness.

e. Biblical Example:

The prodigal son realised the truth about his condition and returned to his father, finding restoration (Luke 15:17-20).

4. BELIEVERS MUST LIVE BY THE TRUTH

Knowing the truth is not enough; it must be lived out daily.

a. Walking in Truth (3 John 1:4)

God delights in His children walking in truth.

b. Obedience to the Word (James 1:22)

Believers must be doers of the Word.

c. Speaking the Truth in Love (Ephesians 4:15)

Truth must be expressed with love.

d. Standing Firm in Truth (Ephesians 6:14)

Truth is part of the believer’s spiritual armour.

e. Biblical Example:

Daniel stood firmly in truth and refused to compromise, even under pressure (Daniel 6:10).

CONCLUSION

The question “What is truth?” remains relevant today. In a world filled with conflicting ideas and beliefs, the answer is clear: truth is found in Jesus Christ and in the Word of God.

Believers are called not only to know the truth but to live by it. When we embrace Christ as the truth and align our lives with His Word, we experience freedom, direction, and purpose.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, reveal Your truth to me daily, in Jesus name.

2. Lord, help me to recognise Jesus as the ultimate truth, in Jesus name.

3. Father, guide me to live according to Your Word, in Jesus name.

4. Lord, deliver me from every form of deception, in Jesus name.

5. Father, let Your truth set me free in every area of my life, in Jesus name.

6. Lord, give me the grace to walk in truth always, in Jesus name.

7. Father, strengthen me to stand firm in truth despite opposition, in Jesus name.

8. Lord, help me to speak and live the truth in love, in Jesus name.

9. Father, let Your Word guide my decisions and actions, in Jesus name.

10. Lord, establish my life on the foundation of truth, in Jesus name.