Text: Matthew 16:24-27
There are many investments that one can make (stocks, real estate, collectibles, cryptocurrency, etc.). All of these have to do with financial growth and security in this life. Yet there are certain investments we are to make that are spiritual in nature, and these are most important. In this series, we are going to discuss some of these investments we are to make. In this second lesson, we are going to consider the need to buy the truth.
What Is Truth?
- If we are to invest in it, we need to understand what it is – Pilate asked this of Jesus (John 18:37-38) but did not realize that the one he asked was the embodiment of truth (John 14:6)
- The word of God is truth (John 17:17), and Jesus is the Word (John 1:14) – all of His word is truth (Psalm 119:160)
- So what is truth? – it is the message that has been delivered to us by God; therefore, it is inherently valuable (Psalm 19:7-10)
What Truth Gives Us
- Wisdom – God’s wisdom; previously hidden (1 Corinthians 2:7), now revealed (1 Corinthians 2:10); unknowable unless the Lord chose to reveal His mind to us (1 Corinthians 2:11-13, 16)
- Instruction – God’s word provides instructions for how we are to live our lives; it tells us what is required of us (ex: Colossians 3:18-4:6); it also tells us what we should NOT do (ex: Colossians 3:5-9)
- Understanding – God’s word (the truth) is understandable (Ephesians 3:4); we can know God’s will for us (Ephesians 5:17) and the difference between right and wrong (Psalm 119:104)
- Wisdom (again) – this time, it is not God’s wisdom (the source), it is the wisdom we gain; wisdom is the application of knowledge; once we know God’s will, we must practice it (James 1:22); this enables us to grow in wisdom as we learn to apply God’s word in various situations
The Cost of Truth
- To “buy the truth” implies a price we must pay – what will it cost us?
- Pride – to buy the truth, we must be willing to admit when we are wrong; this requires humility (James 1:21); we must humbly submit to God’s will
- Time and effort – God’s word is understandable, but we are not born with this understanding; we must diligently study His word (2 Timothy 2:15); search the Scriptures daily (Acts 17:11)
- Friends and family – sadly, buying the truth often puts us at odds with others, even those who are closest to us (Matthew 10:34-37)
Why Some Sell the Truth
- To sell the truth is to compromise or abandon it – why do some choose to do this?
- Easier – sometimes error is easier to believe and follow than truth; the narrow way is difficult (Matthew 7:13-14)
- Popular – the majority will not follow truth (Matthew 7:13-14); do not compromise to gain acceptance (Galatians 1:10)
- Avoid persecution – the world will accept us if we are like them, not if we follow Christ (John 15:18-19)
Conclusion
- We must buy the truth and never sell it
- If we are willing to invest in it, we can gain wisdom, instruction, and understanding
- Therefore, we must allow God’s word to guide us in all that we do
