It All Begins by Defining the Truth

April 23, 2015

“Jesus answered …’Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.'” – John 18:37b

In order to understand absolute or universal truth, we must begin by defining truth. Truth, according to the dictionary, is “conformity to fact or actuality; a statement proven to be or accepted as true.” Some people would say that there is no true reality, only perceptions and opinions. Others would argue that there must be some absolute reality or truth.

In the spring of 2001, the collision of an American spy plane and a Chinese fighter jet caused both governments to blame each other. The Americans felt certain that their version of the incident was true and, of course, the Chinese felt their version was correct. Yet, by the very definition of truth, both could not be right.

So, if there can only be “truth” and not versions of truth, how is it that people from every religious persuasion have embraced universalism: the idea that every religion is equally valid and all men can get to God and heaven their own way?

Consider what Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, the life. No one comes to the Father but through me.” If all religions are a valid way to God, then Jesus was not telling the truth. And if Jesus was not telling the truth, He is not the only way. Truth, by definition, means that one statement is true and a contradicting statement is false.

Either Jesus is truth or universalism is truth. What do you believe? I believe Jesus.