SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER( Part 1)
John 8:32; John 1:14,17; Ephesians 4:15
What is truth?
Truth is a statement or word that is completely accurate.
Truth is not a lie.
Truth is not falsehood.
According to John 14:6, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of truth. For believers, truth is not only a concept but a person and a way of life.
To whom should we speak truth?
Truth should be spoken to everyone, without exception:
To one another
To young people
To older people
To political leaders
To parents and guardians
To institutional authorities (such as school leaders)
To pastors and spiritual leaders
To the poor and vulnerable
To religious authorities
To people in positions of power
Truth is universal. No social status, age, or title places anyone beyond accountability.
How should truth be spoken?
Truth must always be communicated with the right attitude:
With love
With respect
With consideration
With reverence
With humility
Without pride
Truth without love becomes harsh; love without truth becomes empty. The two must work together.
1. Speaking truth to political power
Biblical examples such as the three Hebrew youths, John the Baptist, Moses, Mordecai, and Nehemiah show that faithful individuals were willing to speak truth to rulers and authorities. They did so courageously, yet with conviction and moral clarity. Their lives demonstrate that truth should not be silenced by fear of power.
2. Speaking truth to pastoral and priestly authority
In Galatians 2:1–14, Paul confronted Peter when his behavior contradicted the message of the gospel. This moment teaches that even respected spiritual leaders remain human and accountable. Healthy faith communities require honesty, correction, and commitment to truth, regardless of rank.
Believers are therefore called to uphold truth with spiritual maturity, not rebellion, but responsible accountability.
3. Speaking truth within families(Parents and Children)
Ephesians 6:1–4 highlights mutual responsibility between parents and children. In many cultures, especially where elders are deeply honored, correcting parents or older relatives may be viewed as disrespectful. However, humility must exist on both sides.
Families grow stronger when truth can be spoken with love. Respectful correction is not dishonor; it is a safeguard against manipulation, misunderstanding, and repeated mistakes. Parents and elders who accept truth model wisdom and integrity for the next generation.
Conclusion
Speaking truth to power is not an act of rebellion; it is an act of moral courage. When truth is expressed with love, humility, and respect, it strengthens communities, families, institutions, and faith. A society that protects truth protects justice, dignity, and spiritual growth.
Alexander Oritsetimeyin Edun
Email- edunao@gmail.com
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