Truth and Transparency – Jim Fowler

While on one level, it might be true to say that truth has many variables and nuances of understanding, and is thus relative to interpretation to determine an accurate recitation of what happened in the past or what is expected, the law of the land, as administered in our court system, insists that people promise to “tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.” In other words, they do not want any embellishment, or exaggeration, or portions conveniently “left out.” They want a clear testimony of what you think to be true in terms of your natural observation of the facts of the case of what transpired in the situation being considered before the court.

But there is another level of truth, spiritual truth, that people may have different opinions and interpretations about subjectively, but objectively is eternally true and valid regardless of what people think. Objective truth is truth that coincides with reality, what really is and what really happened, regardless of our interpretation. The Greek word aletheia, translated as both “truth” and “reality,” is used to describe the living and personal reality that Jesus is inherently in Himself. “I am the Truth/Reality” of God (John. 14:6). “You shall know the Truth and the Truth will set you free” (John. 8:32). “I am the truth that will set you free” (John. 8:36).

Truth is JESUS (John. 8:32,36; 14:6). Truth is not a substantive instructional module that we study to learn or defend. Truth is a Person, and becomes personal in a personal relationship with JESUS. The personal reality of God in Jesus can set you free and relieve you of any need to hide behind half-truths and manipulated scenarios. Truth has nothing to hide, and can therefore be absolutely transparent. When the Reality/Truth of Jesus lives in us, functioning as our Life, then we can be totally transparent, with no secrets or hidden agendas, nothing held back, nothing to hide. Genuine Truth in Jesus is totally transparent and truthful, consistent with divine Reality.

Jim Fowler is a cherished and respected friend of Plain Truth Ministries, a wonderful brother in Christ, having served in a variety of capacities, on our Board of Directors, as a theological consultant and as an author and editor.  He continues to write, with his latest being “Manifesting the Life of Jesus” available on Amazon.  Jim is a treasure to the body of Christ, a Christ follower who faithfully reflects God’s grace in Jesus, as our risen Lord lives his life within him.