To Tell The Truth

“I tell you the truth, the man who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber.”

John 10:1

 

Do you ever stop and think about why Jesus prefaced His words above,

and in other places in scripture, with the phrase: “I tell you the truth…”

Do you think He was concerned that the disciples may have thought He was fibbing?

I don’t think that’s a very good argument to make.

By way of answering the question (or at least giving you my thoughts on it) let me ask you a question.

How relevant is that truth He spoke to our day and time?

I would say it is very relevant.

All of culture stands ready to pounce on anyone who would be so intolerant as to suggest only one way into the Kingdom of Heaven.

After all, they say: “How could anyone be so narrow-minded!”

Or maybe you’ve heard this refrain: “What makes you think you’re so right?”

Some of the words Jesus spoke, He spoke for a specific purpose for that moment in time.

For example, He gave instructions about finding money in a fish in order to pay taxes.

Certainly, there is a principle behind those words that we are wise to learn and apply but the specific instructions are not necessarily relevant to us today.

But what about the words following: “I tell you the truth…”?

I believe Jesus was stating truth that is relevant regardless of the date on the calendar.

Man will always attempt short cuts or alternatives to Gods’ way.

We try to ‘climb into heaven’ by some other way.

Jesus said if we do that we are a thief and a robber.

That second part about being thieves and robbers if we attempt to change God’s provision is as true as the first part.

Is it not creative or ingenious of us to offer alternatives.

Doing so makes us thieves and robbers.

In this hour be aware of those who would come and tell you that a saving faith in Jesus Christ is good but not necessary.

Jesus said it is both.

And He, who is truth, only speaks the truth!