TRUTH

The term "truth" carries several connotations in the Bible. (a) Truth can convey the idea of loyalty. Those who abide in Jesus' teaching are "truly" his disciples (Jn. 8:31). (b) True may denote that which is genuine, in contrast to the counterfeit. God is "true" deity; idols are not (1 Thes. 1:9). (c) Truth is that which conforms to reality; it stands in opposition to the lie (Rom. 1:25). (d) Truth is that which remains consistent. The "sum" of God's word is truth (Psa. 119:160 NASB). (e) Truth is that which is in harmony with a standard. The Lord's word is the truth (Jn. 17:17), and by that standard men must worship him (Jn. 4:24). (f) Truth sometimes expresses the idea of honesty (Mk. 5:33). (g) In order for "truth" to avail a person, it must be known (Jn. 8:32; cf. 1 Tim. 2:4), understood (cf. Eph. 5:17), believed and loved (2 Thes. 2:10-12), and obeyed (Rom. 2:8-9; 1 Jn. 1:6; 2:4). One must strive to "walk" in truth always (2 Jn. 4; 3 Jn. 3), never hinder it (Rom. 1:18), withstand it (2 Tim. 3:8), or turn away from it (Tit. 1:14).