To Tell the Truth

August 19, 2007

Opening Text:  John 3:16-21

Title:  To tell the truth (10 Commandments Series)

Text:  Exodus 20:16

Proposition:  Truth is a characteristic of a holy God.

Application:  We are to reflect God in our truthfulness in the “courts” of our world.

Opening illustration:

            Less then one month ago, Michael Vick vowed that his name would be cleared in court.

            Why do we value truth and honesty so much?  Because it is in our very DNA.  We were created in the image of God to reflect his holiness. That nature is of corrupted by sin.  But truth wish to break free.  Jesus said he was truth and his words were true.  To this Moses taught the importance of truth.  The context is the legal system of Israel.  Dt. 7:6-7

I.                   Civil Courts

a.       Interaction with others

                                                              i.      Easy realm to get by with lies

                                                            ii.      Our mission is to seek and save the lost, which means our behavior reflects on who we testify about.

1.      I Peter 3:15-18

b.      Family Court

                                                              i.      The greatest pain and tragedy of relationships comes out of this location.

                                                            ii.      This witness is a concern to Paul

1.      Ephesians 6:4

2.      I Corinthians 11:17ff,

II.                Criminal Court

a.       Court of God, all the evidence is in discovery.  The smoking guns have all been collected.

b.      Plea Bargain is available.  John 14:6