A note from our pastor:

“Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.”

Ephesians 4:25

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

The Apostle Paul, having concluded his instructions about setting aside our old manner of living, now begins instruction into the behaviors which show forth the new man. Starting with verse twenty-five and continuing through the end of the chapter the Apostle highlights specific ways in which his readers can live a life which reflects Christ.

Each of the instructions given is important. Notwithstanding, the Apostle was a well-educated man and wrote with particular emphasis. As such, the first and last items in a series are of utmost importance and should receive special attention.

The first instruction to disciples is to put away all lying. The scriptures are very clear about how Christ views lies. John records the words of Christ in chapter eight saying that Satan himself is the father of lies and it is his nature to spread lies. Proverbs chapter twenty five and verse eighteen says one who bears false witness is like a sword or sharp arrow.

With a little reflection it is clear why the Apostle emphasizes this behavior. Lying or bearing false witness is destructive to the one telling the lie as well as the one who is the subject of the lie. Furthermore, if one believes the liar and acts upon their lying then often even more individuals can be damaged by this ungodly behavior.

When bearing false witness begins to happen among disciples it becomes especially destructive to the cause of Christ and the health of the church. Many times it occurs because of false perceptions or failure to investigate information further. Thus, the Apostle instructs the disciple to set aside all lying if one is to reflect the love of Christ.

Let us as disciples of Christ put on the new man and in doing so seek a manner of life that avoids the destructive outcomes of bearing false witness.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah