Understanding Credibility: Building Trust, Dependability, and Authentic Christian Character

Credibility forms the foundation of trust in our relationships with God and others. As believers, our character is demonstrated through consistency, truthfulness, and reliability, reflecting God's own unchanging nature and dependability in all circumstances.

The Divine Foundation of Credibility

Everything about God is totally credible and dependable, as He is not a man that He should lie (Num 23:19). His character serves as the ultimate standard for trustworthiness and reliability. Paul writes that God's creation reflects His character, and this is evident to humanity, providing a foundation for faith and trust (Rom 1:18-20). When we understand God's perfect credibility, we gain insight into what authentic trustworthiness looks like in our own lives.

The credibility of God was demonstrated powerfully in the account of Moses confronting Pharaoh. Moses was concerned he would not be taken seriously when he went to Pharaoh to say, "God said let my people go" (Ex 4:1, 5:1-52). God's credibility was at stake. Pharaoh dismissed the directive and brought much suffering on the Egyptians until he finally relented, realizing that God would do what He intended. This historical account shows that God's word is always reliable, even when others doubt or resist it.

Discernment and the Quest for Truth

Some people are skeptical and do not believe the account of others until they personally see the evidence, as was the case when Jesus rose from the grave (Mk 16:11,14; Lk 24:11; Jn 20:25-27). While we should not be gullible and believe everything we are told, we must be discerning and ascertain the truth. Critical thinking explores the facts to arrive at a solid foundation, helping us distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of information.

Understandably, the disciples had a deep mistrust of Saul's (Paul's) conversion, suspicious whether it was genuine or just a trick to capture more believers because of his reputation (Act 9:21,26). Faith must have some grounds for its stance – if not, it is just wishful thinking. We should be prepared to investigate further when we encounter people and things that puzzle us, always seeking truth with wisdom and discernment.

The credibility of our character is proved by consistency

Jesus was asked, "Are you the Christ?" (Lk 22:67). There is nothing wrong with asking questions to validate the truth; however, when truth is recognized, it must be acted upon. Do I delve into the Bible to explore and discern its reliability and credibility as being God's love letter to us, showing how He wants us to live in relation to Him and our fellow man? This personal investigation strengthens our faith and equips us to share our beliefs with confidence.

Building and Restoring Credibility

At all times, we should speak the truth and not exaggerate to impress, so we become known as being reliable, trustworthy, sincere, and credible. Our words and actions should consistently align with our professed beliefs, creating a pattern of dependability that others can rely upon. This consistency in character becomes a powerful testimony to the transforming power of Christ in our lives.

Unfortunately, many men of God have lost credibility within the church and the world in general after their moral and financial sinful actions have been exposed. This has left many disillusioned and brought shame to Jesus and the Church, with the unsaved hesitant about turning to Christ, thinking "if that is Christianity." Such failures remind us of our human frailty and the constant need for accountability and spiritual vigilance.

In spite of the wrong done, forgiveness is available when there is genuine repentance. A measure of credibility can be regained over a period as they walk humbly and carefully. Church discipline often requires accountability, mentoring, and the support of godly folk standing alongside the broken person, as Ananias and Barnabas did with Paul (Act 9:17,27). Restoration is possible, but it requires time, genuine change, and the patient support of the Christian community.

Reflection and Application

How does my daily conduct reflect the credibility and trustworthiness of God's character to those around me?
Am I willing to investigate and test my beliefs against Scripture, allowing God's Word to shape my understanding of truth?
When I encounter failure or inconsistency in other believers, do I respond with grace while maintaining appropriate boundaries?
What steps am I taking to build accountability relationships that help maintain my integrity and credibility as a Christian?