Speak Truth, But...

Matthew Bassford
09/06/15 - Discipleship

This past week, I narrowly avoided being drawn into that most futile and unbecoming of pursuits, arguing on the Internet. I’m reasonably certain that I’m not the only one who struggles with this. I thought it would be worthwhile, then, to (re)consider the various Biblical cautions about speaking even the truth.

• Speak truth, but listen first (James 1:19).
• Speak truth, but only after examining yourself for hypocrisy (Luke 6:41-42).
• Speak truth, but put yourself in your hearer’s shoes before you do (Matthew 7:12).
• Speak truth, but remember that different people need to be approached differently (1 Thessalonians 5:14).
• Speak truth, but acknowledge that the truth might not be what you think it is (Acts 18:24-26).
• Speak truth, but beware of self-righteousness (Luke 18:9-14).
• Speak truth, but not for the joy of hearing yourself talk (Proverbs 18:2).
• Speak truth, but avoid quarreling (2 Timothy 2:14).
• Speak truth, but be patient and kind with those in error (2 Timothy 2:24).
• Speak truth, but with humility (1 Peter 5:5).
• Speak truth, but be gentle and respectful about it (1 Peter 3:15).
• Speak truth, but in a way that makes for peace (Romans 14:19).
• Speak truth, but know when to drop the subject (Matthew 7:6).
• Speak truth, but with the goal of glorifying God, not yourself (1 Peter 4:10).
• Speak truth, but always speak it in love (Ephesians 4:15).

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