In an article on truth-telling, one author says, “The basic biblical perspective on honesty and deception is to tell the truth and let consequences fall where they may. Another says, the restoration of truth telling is an important moral value in society.” People motivated by the desire to please Jesus Christ and live by His Kingdom values endeavor to speak the truth, even when they know it might cost them in prestige or financially. At the trial of Jesus, Pilate offered to let Him go free, but the religious leaders objected. They saw Jesus as a threat to their power and position. So even though calling for Jesus’ death violated biblical and moral standards, Pilate, the religious leaders, and the crowd all put aside any commitment to truth and morality for the sake of their own selfish ends. They all agreed to crucify Jesus. Sadly, there are still people today willing to sell their souls—to sacrifice truth and morality–to further their own selfish gain. Yet true followers of Christ have a different agenda. They long to see God’s rule expand on earth. And while they know it will not happen perfectly until Jesus returns, they work for justice now because they know it pleases our Lord, Jesus Christ.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
