Truth or Consequences

Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: Exodus 20:16Exodus 20:16 reveals, "You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor."There is an alarming decline in basic honesty in our nation. We know more facts and believe less truth than ever before. As we choose between truth and consequences, we must consider three things about our witness.First, we must remember the liability of a false witness.Bearing a false witness is perhaps the most foolish and damaging thing we could do; it is hurtful to people and hellish before God.The father of all false witnesses is Satan himself; there is no truth in him. We are never more like him than when we bear a false witness. When we slander, falsely criticize, remain silent when we ought to speak or insinuate things that are not true, we bear a false witness and break God’s holy commandment. We will receive the judgment of Almighty God.Second, remember the reliability of a faithful witness.Jesus Christ is called, “the faithful witness of God.” (Revelation 1:5) When we tell the truth, we are like Him. Acts 1:8 says, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be witnesses to Me.”As witnesses of Christ, we are called to testify of what Jesus has done for us, to tell the truth of who He is and how He has saved us.Finally, we must remember the responsibility of a family witness.Adrian Rogers says, “There is a crying need in America today for families that know, believe, love, teach, speak, and share the truth. A home that is not built on truth will crumble.” How do we translate the importance of a faithful witness to our children?-By precept: Teach your children Scripture so they know and understand the Holy commandments.-By example: Moms and Dads should tell the truth and keep their word. Integrity is so very important, especially in the home.-By discipline: As parents in this corrupt world, we cannot tolerate deliberate disobedience, defiant disrespect, or dishonesty from our children.Apply it to your lifeAre you living a life of honesty? If you want your home to win and your children to obey God, it starts with you. Take these commandments one at a time, measure your life by them, and teach them to your children.