The Biblical Concept of “the Truth” in John 3:20-21
In Today's Words…
The phrase 'the truth' in the Bible often refers to the principles or commands of God, as revealed by His Son, Jesus Christ. In the context of John 3:20-21, this passage offers profound insight into the heart and actions of believers and non-believers alike. The distinction between those who desire to hide their deeds and those who openly practice righteousness is stark.
In John 3:19, we are told: 'And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.' This verse sets the stage for the subsequent verses, which further articulate why this occurs. In verse 20, it is stated: 'For everyone who does evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds be exposed.'
Verse 21 picks up the theme: 'But he who practices the truth comes to the light, so that his deeds may be manifested, that they have been done in God."
Understanding the Context
The whole chapter provides context that is crucial to interpreting these verses. John 3:19-21 discusses the judgment brought about by light, and the distinction between those who love darkness and those who love light.
When translating the Bible, different versions might use terms like 'true' or 'truth,' but the underlying meaning remains the same. The context is key. The term 'practice the truth' refers to living a life in accordance with God's commandments, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
One of the most profound aspects of this scripture is the differentiation between those who fear the light and those who embrace it. The light in this case represents the presence and truth of Jesus Christ. By choosing to come to the light, believers expose their good works, which are seen as having been done in harmony with God's will.
Principles of Divine Truth
God's truth is likened to a proven mathematical equation. Just as 224 is true because it has been proven, so too are the principles of God's truth. Believers live by these truths, while others may hide their deeds, fearing the exposure that truth would bring.
The light of truth, personified in Jesus Christ, brings clarity and transparency. Those who practice the truth reveal their works as righteous and in line with God's will. Conversely, those who do evil seek to hide their actions, fearing the judgment that the light would bring.
Engaging with the Bible:
To gain a deeper understanding of the Bible and learn more about God and Jesus, feel free to reach out to Jehovah's Witnesses. They are dedicated to helping people understand the divine message and can provide resources such as They offer free Bible studies in various formats to help individuals and families delve into the scriptures.
Solemn Remembrance
We approach a very significant event—the Memorial of Jesus’s death for us. This solemn day is marked by the heartrending sacrifice of Jesus, who died to reconcile us to God. Although the traditional memorial gathering is not possible due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, we can all take part in watching it from the comfort and safety of our homes. The event will be held on 27 March 2021 at 6 PM Central European time.
Apart from the Memorial, the has numerous resources available, including articles, videos, and other materials to help you explore the Bible and its rich teachings. Whether you're a longtime reader or a newcomer to Bible study, there is something for everyone.
Conclusion
Understanding the biblical concept of 'the truth' involves embracing the principles of righteousness and alignment with God. By living by these truths, one becomes a beacon in the darkness, serving as a witness to the transformative power of Jesus Christ. This truth offers a path to enlightenment and eternal life. Take time to reflect on these verses and allow them to guide you on your spiritual journey.