Is There Absolute Truth?
Unchanging Truth in a Changing World
In a world where opinions and personal preferences often dictate beliefs, the question of absolute truth is more critical than ever. Many in modern culture argue that truth is subjective—that it depends on individual experiences, emotions, or circumstances. However, scripture reveals a very different perspective: absolute truth does exist, and it is grounded in the unchanging character and word of God.
The Twisting of Scripture
Modern society has not only rejected the concept of absolute truth but has also twisted scripture to support subjective interpretations of truth. This distortion often comes in the form of cherry-picking verses or removing them from their proper context to justify sinful lifestyles or personal agendas.
For example, some use Matthew 7:1, “Judge not, that you be not judged,” to argue that any judgment of behavior is wrong. However, when read in context, Jesus is not condemning all forms of judgment but warning against hypocritical or unrighteous judgment (Matthew 7:2-5).
Another example is the redefinition of God’s love. While 1 John 4:8 tells us, “God is love,” many use this to excuse sin, claiming that a loving God would never condemn their actions. Yet scripture teaches that God's love is holy and just, and He calls us to turn from sin out of His love for us (John 3:16; Hebrews 12:6).
This distortion of truth stems from a rejection of God’s authority and an embrace of self-determined morality, as warned in Isaiah 5:20, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
What Is Absolute Truth?
Absolute truth is truth that applies to all people, in all places, and at all times. It is not influenced by opinions, culture, or feelings. Jesus declared the existence of absolute truth in John 14:6:
"I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me."
Jesus Christ Himself is the embodiment of truth. His word, the Bible, is the ultimate source of truth, as affirmed in John 17:17, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.”
Scriptural Support for Absolute Truth
Psalm 119:160
“The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.”
This verse establishes that God's word is completely true and eternal, unaffected by the shifting opinions of culture.
Hebrews 13:8
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”
Absolute truth exists because God is unchanging. His nature and His word do not evolve with societal trends.
Proverbs 30:5-6
“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar.”
God's truth is pure and complete. Adding to or altering it leads to deception.
2 Timothy 3:16-17
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
Scripture is divinely inspired and serves as the ultimate standard for truth and righteous living.
The Danger of Rejecting Absolute Truth
When people reject absolute truth, moral relativism takes its place. This leads to confusion, division, and sin being celebrated as righteousness. Judges 21:25 describes such a society:
“In those days there was no king in Israel; everyone did what was right in his own eyes.”
The rejection of truth ultimately leads to destruction, as stated in Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being priest for Me.”
How Should Christians Respond?
Stand Firm in the Truth
Paul exhorts believers in Ephesians 6:14, “Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth.” To combat cultural lies, we must first know the truth by immersing ourselves in God's word.Speak the Truth in Love
While standing for truth, Christians must avoid self-righteousness or harshness. Instead, we should speak truth with love and grace, as instructed in Ephesians 4:15, “but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.”Proclaim the Gospel
Absolute truth finds its ultimate expression in the gospel of Jesus Christ. We are called to share this truth with others, knowing that it is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16).
Absolute Truth Exists
Yes, absolute truth exists, and it is found in God and His word. While society and current culture seek to redefine truth and twist scripture to fit personal agendas, Christians are called to uphold the unchanging truth of the Bible. As Psalm 119:105 reminds us:
“Your word is a lamp to my feet And a light to my path.”
In a world darkened by moral confusion, God's truth shines as the only reliable guide. Let us cling to it, proclaim it boldly, and live it faithfully.