Freed by Truth

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32, CEB)

In the legal drama A Few Good Men, Jack Nicholson’s character, under prosecutorial examination, shouts in agitation, “You can’t handle the truth!” It’s a line that has echoed through popular culture, capturing the idea that truth can feel too harsh, too unsettling to face. Yet Jesus turns that idea upside down. His truth is not meant to overwhelm us but to liberate us. It is not hidden in shadows or locked behind authority; it is revealed in love, and it sets us free.

When we know the truth in Christ, we begin to see the half‑truths of the world for what they are. Promises of success without sacrifice, love without commitment, or power without justice all fall short. But the truth of Jesus exposes these illusions and gives us discernment. As Paul reminds us, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you can discern what is the will of God—what is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2).

Jesus declares, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). His truth is not a set of shifting facts but the living reality of God’s love. This truth tells us who we are: beloved children of God (1 John 3:1). It tells us what Christ has done: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). It tells us what freedom means: “Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17). 

We are set free by this truth—not from responsibility, but from fear and shame. Free to live with hope. Free to forgive. Free to walk in light rather than darkness (John 12:46).

So how do we know it is truth? Because it bears fruit in our lives. When we walk in God’s truth–following the Holy Spirit–we find peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). We find courage to love our neighbor, even when it costs us. We find joy that cannot be stolen by circumstance. 

Living the truth means letting Christ’s words shape our choices, our relationships, and our witness in the world.

God of truth, we confess that we often chase after half-truths and easy answers. Remind us today that your truth is not hidden but revealed in Jesus Christ. Set us free from fear and falsehood and guide us to live in the light of your love. May your truth shape our words, our actions, and our hearts. In Christ, who is the Truth, we pray. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim