News: Good, Bad, and Discerning Truth in a World of Information
News shapes our understanding of the world and our place within it. Whether welcome or devastating, the information we receive carries spiritual, personal, and social significance — calling us to discern truth, respond with faith, and share the greatest news of all with those around us.
The Nature of News
News can be either welcome and good or unwelcome and devastating — items of significance that may have long-term repercussions, affecting us or other people. How we receive and respond to news reveals much about our character and our trust in God's sovereignty.
The spiritual bad news is that all are sinners and doomed to a lost eternity (Rom 3:23, 6:23). In stark contrast, the angel announcing the birth of Christ to the shepherds declared, "I bring you good news of great joy…" (Lk 2:10). Jesus Himself proclaimed, "The Spirit of the Lord is on me because He has anointed me to preach the good news to the poor…" (Lk 4:18).
The gospel is the greatest news of all — don't keep it secret
This good news is the 'gospel of salvation' for fallen, guilty, condemned humanity, available through Jesus and the grace of the Kingdom of God (Mt 9:35; Lk 4:43; Jn 3:15-18; Act 8:35; Rom 5:8). Paul wrote, "It is good news that you are now walking with God" (1 Thes 3:6).
As believers, we have been commissioned to go and proclaim this good news — Jesus commanded His followers, "Go and make disciples of all nations" (Mt 28:18-20). This calls for both verbally sharing the gospel message and living a God-honouring life that authenticates what we profess. Our conduct and character should commend the good news we declare, so that others may see the reality of Christ in us and be drawn to Him (Mt 5:16; Phil 2:15).
Responding to Bad News with Faith
Job faced numerous hardships but recognised God's sovereignty, trusting in His goodness and mercy even amidst suffering (Job 1:14-22, 2:10). When bad news comes, the question is whether we trust that God is fully in control and only allows what is ultimately for our good. While troubles may come, He will provide help and comfort, so "I will bless the Lord at all times" (Ps 34:1; Rom 8:28; 2 Cor 1:4; 1 Thes 5:18).
Trust God's sovereignty even when the news is devastating
We should empathise with others when they share their news about personal matters — "Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn" (Rom 12:15). However, it is important not to divulge confidential or damaging information to a third party. Engaging in gossip is not wise (Prov 11:12-13).
Discerning Truth in a World of Distortion
Increasingly many of the world's newscasts are biased and distorted, even being labelled 'fake news' as they can include false or exaggerated reports and propaganda slanted to give a wrong impression. In the garden, Eve accepted the serpent's fake news that she and Adam would not die if they ate from the forbidden tree and their situation would dramatically improve (Gen 3:4-5).
Evaluate the origin — since some news may not accurately represent the truth
Generally, media organisations have agendas and seldom report on the complete facts but are selective in their coverage. It is wise to have input from several sources to gain accurate details and a balanced perspective. Discern the worldview of the reporters as they reflect and shape prevailing currents of thought to slant the truth. Mainstream media refers to well-established large organisations often susceptible to government influence to spread their narrative. In contrast, alternative media challenge the dominant viewpoint, advocating for a different perspective and freedom of expression when interpreting and speculating the 'why' of what happened.
The Bible condemns circulating what is untrue — "Do not spread false reports" (Ex 23:1). Hence, we should be careful to accurately share information without skewing it, which gives a mistaken account. We are not to spread what is untrue (being a false witness) but "Speak the truth to each other" (Ex 20:16; Zech 8:16-17; Eph 4:25). We are not obligated to offer our opinion on everything.
The Bible warns that in the last days, some will not accept the true information of Scripture but turn aside to follow myths taught by teachers who tell the people what they want to hear (2 Tim 4:3-4). Unfortunately, some modern-day preachers have fallen into this trap of not presenting what the Bible clearly states, yet the warning is not to add to or take away from its message (2 Tim 3:16; Rev 22:18-19). The early believers were commended for their research to ensure what they were taught lined up with Scripture (Act 17:11).
Reflection and Application:
- When you receive bad news, do you instinctively turn to God in trust, or lean on your own understanding? How might Romans 8:28 reshape your response?
- Are you sharing the gospel — the greatest news — with those around you, or keeping it to yourself? What practical step could you take this week?
- How discerning are you when consuming news? Consider evaluating your regular sources for bias and seeking a more balanced perspective.
- Reflect on whether you ever pass on information without verifying it first. How can you commit to being a person who "speaks the truth to each other" (Zech 8:16)?
See also: credibility, deception, facts, false witness, gossip, information, media, opinion, reaction, truth, viewpoint.