Understanding Facts: The Foundation of Truth and Reliable Knowledge

Facts serve as the bedrock of truth, providing evidence-based claims that can be substantiated, verified, and distinguished from opinions, speculations, or probabilities.

The Nature and Definition of Facts

Facts can be proved as there is evidence to substantiate the claims – they are not opinions, hopes, myths, feelings, speculations or probabilities. Statistics are a specialized type of facts as they are definable and, because they are measurable, they can be accurately used for comparison and to gauge trends. The reliability of information is paramount, as what we believe and act upon has significant implications for our decisions and worldview.

Do I pass on specific unbiased verifiable facts, or do I share questionable, distorted data that may have originated from exaggerated, unreliable hearsay or gossip? We should be known as a reliable source of genuine facts, figures, information and beneficial knowledge. In an era where mass media communication is often distorted by misinformation, sensationalism, emotions and biased agendas, discerning truth becomes essential for forming sound viewpoints (Gal 1:8-9).

Biblical Foundation of Truth

Our salvation and the gospel message is grounded in the solid truth of the Word of God. If its content is different to what is recorded it is distorted and should not be followed. If there is a discrepancy the Bible is to be the final authority that we must adhere to. Similarly, what we share from the Bible must be complete and correctly explained, not added to or taken away from, and be confirmed as true by those receiving it (Act 17:11; 2 Tim 2:15; Rev 22:18-19).

Our faith is based on solid facts, such as the birth, death and resurrection of Christ

While what is explained can be interpreted slightly differently the overall basics must be consistent with the truths as found in God's guide book – the Bible. Our experience must line up with its truth – rather than trying to make the Bible agree with what has been outworked thus far in our lives. A fervent early church preacher was unknowingly teaching only part of the truth. A mature couple came alongside him and explained the whole truth to him, enabling him to speak what Paul termed the "whole counsel of God" (Act 18:24-26, 20:27).

Living by Truth and Discernment

The human writers of the Bible had a reputation of integrity, being trustworthy and honest, and so could humbly yet confidently state, "You know our testimony is true" (3 Jn 1:12). Do I know the basic facts of Christianity so I can share my faith with others (1 Pet 3:15)? The prime examples are those that consider there is no God, no hell or there are multiple ways to heaven and so are relying on any other route except a humble acceptance of the salvation offered through Jesus.

Such people have been deceived by believing the devil's lie and unless they embrace the truth as found in Jesus will live to regret it for eternity. In the major decisions of life it is wise to compare the available information from different sources and perspectives besides gaining input from mature believers.

The Bible's commands and principles have sound value which is far beyond our comprehension, and living by them is very beneficial (Ps 19:9-11). The Israelites, relying on their own senses were tricked by fabricated evidence, but had they inquired of the Lord they would have known the truth (Josh 9:14).

To a degree mass media communication is distorted by misinformation, sensationalism, emotions and biased agendas giving rise to assumptions and presumptions which are not good foundational material for society to formulate their viewpoint. It is important to know the reliability or trustworthiness of the information we act on, for it can have major implications.

What we believe and act on is paramount

We must be discerning about the sources of information we rely upon, ensuring they align with biblical truth and are grounded verifiable evidence rather than subjective opinions or manipulated narratives.

Reflection and Application:

Examine your sources of information and evaluate whether they are based on verifiable facts or influenced by bias and speculation.

·Commit to knowing the basic facts of Christianity so you can confidently share your faith with others.

Ensure that what you teach or share about the Bible is complete, accurate, and not distorted or taken out of context.

Practice discernment by comparing information from multiple sources and seeking wisdom from mature believers.