Information: Discerning Truth in the Information Age

The information age presents both opportunities and challenges for Christians seeking wisdom and truth. While we have unprecedented access to knowledge, much of what we encounter is biased, misleading, or devoid of solid research and factual substantiation. We must exercise careful discernment to avoid being led astray by what merely sounds plausible or appealing (1 Thes 5:21-22).

We need discernment to discover the truth

Information fundamentally governs our decisions and actions, making it crucial that we base our choices on truth rather than gossip, biased opinion, or propaganda from those with hidden agendas. As Christians, we bear the responsibility of testing spiritual teaching against Scripture rather than blindly accepting everything we hear (Acts 17:11).

False teachers exist who would lead believers into deception and heresy through distorted doctrine (Mt 24:4-24). Scripture provides a solemn warning, especially for Bible teachers, not to add to or subtract from God's message but to correctly handle and proclaim the truths of Scripture (Deut 4:1-2, 12:32; 2 Tim 2:15; Rev 22:18-19).

Only follow what is true

Rahab provided false information to protect the Israelite spies she was sheltering, deceiving the King of Jericho (Josh 2:1-6). Despite her deception, she was commended for her faith in God (Heb 11:31). While she upheld a greater principle of protecting God's people by breaking a lesser principle of truth-telling, this exceptional circumstance does not grant license for habitual dishonesty.

Christians are called to speak the truth in love (Eph 4:25). The information we share should be true, beneficial, and uplifting, rather than unprofitable gossip or criticism best left unspoken. We must remember that we will be held accountable for every careless word we speak (Mt 12:36).

We will give account of our words

Our speech should reflect the character of Christ, building others up rather than tearing them down. Even when we lack complete answers, we should not hesitate to share our experience of Christ with those who don't know Him, for we cannot remain silent about what God has done (Jn 9:25; Acts 4:20; 1 Jn 1:1).

Without hearing about Jesus, people remain locked in ignorance and sin, unaware of the transformation He can bring (Rom 10:14). Christianity is not about amassing information; its core value is a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. This connection is developed and strengthened through increasing our knowledge and understanding of biblical principles, yet facts must never replace passion for the One about whom they speak

Information alone will not change hearts, but an encounter with God will, resulting in transformed lives. Jesus taught that hearing His words with mere mental acceptance, without putting them into practice, leads to disastrous results. Conversely, living by His truth and taking appropriate action based on His words brings blessing and stability (Mt 7:24-27).

Information only leads to transformation when acted on

The journey from information to transformation requires both learning and living. As we grow in understanding, we must also grow in obedience, allowing God's truth to shape our thoughts, decisions, and actions. This holistic approach ensures that knowledge becomes wisdom and that information leads to genuine life change.