«He who speaks truth declares righteousness, but a false witness, deceit» (Proverbs 12:17).
INTEGRITY
In the Aleph, Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986), the magnificent Argentinian author, tells the story of two theologians who immersed themselves in a heated argument. Aureliano, coadjutor of Aquilea, found out that an emerging sect called the monotonous was proclaiming heresies. He also heard that Juan de Panonia, a renowned master of doctrine, had prepared to refute those falsehoods. Since Aureliano couldn’t rid himself of resentment toward his colleague, he considered it was a good opportunity to beat Juan. But foreseeing that Juan would convincingly strike down his arguments, he opted for a safer recourse: scorn. Thus began a vicious debate between the two supposed servants of God who spent too much time defending themselves in a battle that had little to do with spirituality. Juan de Panonia was accused of heresy. He was even accused of having inspired some preachers who fascinated a blacksmith in such a way that he even sacrificed his son. A short time later, Juan de Panonia died at the stake, much to Aureliano’s pleasure. Later on, there was a lightning strike near the hut where he slept, and he was scorched to death just like John.
Lies have no considerations for any areas of human life, not even those some believe warrant theological debates. Many times the search for truth is confused with personal differences. Then, it’s not about discovering God’s will—which everyone invokes in the midst of obvious antagonism toward their rival—, but rather about crushing their opponent and trying to make their opinion prevail. Then, when arguments have been exhausted, insults, disqualifications and false accusations appear in the midst of heated debates. Actually, it’s a very shameful spectacle that makes demons happy.
The Bible is an instrument to proclaim God’s truth and not a tool to hurt, destroy or humiliate others. That’s not its purpose. Forcing the Scriptures to prove personal ideas is self-deceit that leads to no good. The way of truth is different (John 14:6). A healthy interpretation of Scripture doesn’t need human artifices. Instead, it’s a gift of the Holy Spirit (John 16:13).
May God help you proclaim justice and truth through your life today.