John 18:36-38
Introduction
Have you heard someone use the phrase ‘living in my truth’? Culture has coined this popular term to mean living by running things through the framework of one’s own opinion and feelings. When someone says, ‘I am living in my truth,’ they mean they are content living according to the limitations of their own desires, often seeking only to satisfy the flesh. But Christians recognize that their ultimate truth is Kingdom truth. Kingdom truth is found only in Jesus Christ, who was born into this world to testify to this truth (John 8:37). When we walk away from Kingdom truth, we omit God from our framework and chaos ensues. The passive wrath of God is the result of walking away from His truth. But, as we strive to live in Kingdom truth, we become better equipped to combat satanic deception and cultural confusion.
Kingdom truth is from God, so it is spiritual in nature. And because it starts with God in heaven, seeking Kingdom truth is what connects us to His wisdom which provides us with knowledge and discernment (Psalm 8:12) and avenues to obtain the favor of God (Psalm 8:35). It results in spiritual strategies and ideas that operate differently than what we see working in our world and have the ability to produce results greater than worldly results. When one searches for this Kingdom truth, they begin following Jesus and pursuing God the Father through His living and written word. As Jesus said in the last part of John 8:37: ‘Everyone who is of the truth listens to My voice.’
When believers hear and apply Kingdom truth, we find spiritual freedom and are no longer held hostage to satan’s deception. Seeking God through Kingdom truth also transforms the believer, equipping us to become more Christ-like and helping us to fulfill our God-given destiny. Lastly, when living by Kingdom truth (in essence, making Kingdom truth ‘our truth’), believers can walk in divine authority as they align themselves with God through this heavenly connection to Him.
Getting Started
- How much of what you consider truth comes from God the Father and His word? How much comes from the father of lies and culture?
- What are some examples of cultural confusion that seek to draw us away from Kingdom truth?
Let’s Get Personal
- Have you ever used the term ‘my truth’? What did you mean when you said it, and how does it compare to Kingdom truth?
- Are you or a loved one challenged with confusion over a circumstance you face? What does God’s Word say about it?
- Have you ever thought of a strategy that was uncommon in this world? You knew it was from God’s wisdom through your pursuit of Kingdom truth. Describe the strategy and how it has been a benefit to you and others.
Take the Next Step
- Have you ever faced God’s divine judgment by walking away from the truth? What did you learn?
- How can you exercise your spiritual authority? What practical steps can you take to demonstrate this in your home, workplace, and community?
- Want to go deeper? Take time to look at the following passages: John 18:36-38; John 8:31-45; Romans 1:18-32; 1 Timothy 3:14-16; John 17:17; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Timothy 3:13-17; Psalm 31:5; 2 Corinthians 10:1-6; 1 Timothy 4:1-5; John 14:6; John 15:26; John 16:12-15; John 1:17; Psalm 19:7-14.
Renew Your Mind
“For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”
John 18:37
