Continuing to explore how we bear witness to our Christian faith in a fractured world, a pressing challenge today is: how to speak truthfully, with love and grace, in an age of misinformation and polarized discourse. How do we speak the truth in love, saying that which is both truthful and good for building up? (Ephesians 4:25-32)

Words That Shape the World

Scripture consistently reminds us that words possess tremendous power. In Genesis, God speaks creation into existence. In Matthew, Jesus warns us that the words are the fruit of the heart (Matthew 12:36-37). Words can be used to build others up or tear others down. As Christians, we’re called to recognize this power and let our speech be the fruit of our faith.

Our digital landscape has complicated this calling. Misinformation spreads so much faster than truth on social media platforms. Our communication systems often reward quick reactions over thoughtful reflection, outrage over understanding. And sadly, in our political life, dishonesty is rewarded more often than honesty.

The Challenge of Truthfulness

What does it take to be truthful in today’s environment?

• Humility: Recognizing the limits of our knowledge and being willing to say, “I don’t know” or “I might be wrong.” Truthfulness doesn’t require omniscience; quite the opposite, it requires humility.
• Moral Integrity: Truthfulness doesn’t require omniscience, but it does require a moral compass. Being truthful requires being in touch with our deepest and best values. That’s why Ephesians connects truthfulness with love. It’s why the commandment to “not bear false witness against your neighbor” connects truthfulness with respect for the other person’s innate human dignity.
• Discernment: Resisting quick reactions, outrage triggers, and the impulse to spread half-truths or misleading content, even when it supports our preferred narratives.
• Careful Listening: As James 1:19 instructs, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.”

These practices aren’t easy. Often a fear of change or the unknown causes us to shut out new or challenging ideas. Very often, quick reactions are far easier that the hard work of discernment. And sometimes, when moral integrity isn’t paired with humility, we can up end with an arrogance that further divides and obscures the truth.

Truthfulness isn’t easy. How do we balance truth-telling with kindness, grace, and a commitment to others’ well-being? What role should churches play in shaping healthier public discourse? As parents, grandparents, and mentors, how do we guide young people in forming thoughtful worldviews while navigating a complex information landscape?

A Rule of Life for Truthful Speech

A “Rule of Life for Truthful Speech” – a set of commitments for engaging with integrity in conversation, social media, and public discourse – could help.

1. Seek truth courageously. I will resist spreading misinformation, even when it confirms my biases.
2. Practice discernment before sharing. I will pause to ask: “Is this true? Is this kind? Is this necessary?”
3. Engage disagreements with humility. I will assume good intent unless proven otherwise.
4. Build up rather than tear down. I will use my words to heal, connect, and edify.

As Jesus taught, “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Christian witness isn’t just about what we believe, but how we communicate those beliefs. In a culture hungry for both truth and compassion, faithful speech may be one of our most powerful testimonies to the transforming love of Christ.

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only what is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” – Ephesians 4:29