Begin with 2 minutes of stillness and silence before God.

Truth - that which is true or in accordance with fact or reality. Seems like a straightforward and simple definition to me. Why is it then that we struggle to recognize it and accept it? Why do we hide it, manipulate it, or even ignore it?

Take a few deep breaths and let’s see how Jesus was a seeker of truth and a speaker of truth.

HE WAS TRUTH! In John 14:6 “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life.’”

In Matthew chapter 16, we find Jesus instructing His disciples in full teacher mode. In verses 5-12, Jesus warns against wrong teachings. When the disciples had forgotten to pack bread for their travels, Jesus said to them, “Be careful…Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” I like to picture the disciples scratching their heads in confusion. What does bread and yeast have to do with religious leaders? Jesus was comparing the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees to yeast used in bread. It takes only a small amount of yeast to affect an entire batch of bread dough. Jesus used yeast as an example of how a small amount of evil (wrong teachings) can affect a large group of people. The wrong teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees were leading many people astray. Jesus was warning the disciples against this. Have you ever tried to justify something wrong or dishonoring to God by the size of it? Telling a tiny lie? Reframing gossip as simply sharing concern? Believing an untrustworthy source of information? We must pause and ask, "What is the truth?"

Next, in verses 13-20, Jesus seeks the truth when He asks His disciples in verse 13, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” and again in verse 15, “But what about you (disciples)?... Who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter was eager to speak. He answered, “YOU are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Simon Peter’s bold confession of who he believed Jesus to be was life-changing for him. He recognized Jesus as the Messiah. Just as Peter revealed the true identity of Christ, so Jesus revealed Peter’s new identity (name) and role.
In verse 18, the rock on which Jesus would build His church has been identified. Peter would be the first great leader in the church in Jerusalem. Peter is a reminder to Christians that we are the church built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Jesus Christ as the cornerstone. It is faith like Peter’s that is the foundation of Christ’s Kingdom. The truth was revealed but couldn’t be shared freely at that time.

The last verses (21-28) in chapter 16 allow us to observe how Jesus speaks a truth that His followers would not yet understand. He predicts His own death for the first time. Jesus began explaining to His disciples that He must travel to Jerusalem and suffer many things. He would be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Jesus was telling His friends the truth in preparation for what was to come, even though He knew that they could not fully comprehend His mission. Remember, Jesus was the truth!

Peter, Jesus’ friend and devoted follower sought to protect Him from the suffering He prophesied. In verse 24, Jesus says to His disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” When Jesus used this image of His followers taking up their crosses to follow Him, the disciples knew what He meant. Crucifixion was a common Roman method of execution and condemned criminals had to carry their crosses through the streets to the execution site. The Truth is following Jesus meant a true commitment, the risk of death, and no turning back.

Real discipleship implies real commitment - a dedication to follow our Risen Savior and His example of how to love, serve, and walk in truth. When we give our lives in service to Christ we discover the real purpose of living. And that’s the TRUTH!

Take 2 minutes to reflect in silence. 

Reflection: 

• What are some truths about God that He has shown you through His Word?
  
• How does knowing the truth about Jesus impact your faith, gratitude, and service to others?
• What areas of faith and/or life are you a truth seeker?
• Prayer: Loving Lord, we believe that You are the way and the truth and the life. Please help us to discern wrong teachings and let us not be deceived by them. May we always be seekers of truth through Your Word and Your church. We long to know You more, Jesus, and get acquainted with all aspects of Your character. Lead us in the way everlasting. In the powerful Name of Jesus - Amen