THE COST OF DECLARING THE TRUTH By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: John 15:18-19
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you."
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Introduction
Throughout history, the messengers of God have suffered greatly for declaring the truth. While false prophets enjoy the luxuries of deception, the true prophets of God face rejection, persecution, and even death. The reason for this is simple: the world loves lies and despises truth. Jesus Himself warned His followers that they would be hated because of the truth.
Many today choose to live in the comfort of deception rather than embrace the truth that calls for repentance and righteousness. But God calls His people to remain steadfast, unashamed of the truth, and willing to endure suffering for His name’s sake. Those who persist in truth will be counted worthy to reign with Christ, while those who align themselves with falsehood will face eternal damnation.
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The Hatred for the Truth
John 8:32 "Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
Truth exposes darkness and evil, and as a result, those who live in sin reject it. Many people prefer to be covered in lies rather than face the reality of their own wickedness. This is why the world rejects and persecutes those who speak the truth. But those who love God must count it a privilege to declare, live, and uphold the truth at all costs.
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The Danger of False Prophets and Deceptive Teachings
2 Timothy 4:3-4 "For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."
In every generation, there are false prophets who claim to speak on behalf of God but only deceive the masses. These false teachers preach peace when there is no peace and offer false hope while leading people further from God. Many people are enslaved by these deceptions because they desire comfort rather than correction. But God warns His people to remain vigilant and not be carried away by enticing words.
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The Riches of This World vs. True Spiritual Riches
Matthew 6:19-20 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal."
Many pursue material wealth while neglecting their spiritual state. They seek riches, fame, and luxury, but in the end, these things count for nothing. Even Solomon, who was blessed with great wisdom and wealth, fell into foolishness when he abandoned God's ways. True riches are found in a life lived in obedience to God.
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The Foolishness of Human Supremacy
Psalm 2:1-4 "Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed, saying, ‘Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.’ The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them."
Many nations and leaders seek their own glory and imagine themselves to be gods. They claim superiority and strive for dominance, yet they reject the one true God who holds all power. But the Lord laughs at their arrogance, for all people are created equal and subject to Him. True greatness is found in humility and submission to God’s will.
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Summary
Declaring the truth comes with a cost. The world will hate, persecute, and reject those who stand for righteousness. Many prefer deception over truth, choosing false prophets who promise comfort without conviction. But God calls His people to remain steadfast, to reject the lies of this world, and to seek true spiritual riches. In the end, those who stand firm will receive their eternal reward.
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Conclusion
We are living in times of great deception, where many have abandoned truth for convenience. Yet, as followers of Christ, we must stand boldly in faith, proclaiming the truth no matter the cost. Even if the world rejects us, we must remember that God rewards those who are faithful to Him.
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Call to Action
Let us commit to standing for the truth, no matter the opposition. Let us not be swayed by false teachings or the pursuit of worldly riches. Instead, let us seek God’s wisdom and remain faithful to His calling. Even in the face of persecution, we must hold fast to our faith and trust that God will vindicate His people.
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Final Word of Encouragement
1 Corinthians 15:58 "Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
Remain steadfast in your faith, for God sees your struggles and will reward you in due time. Do not be discouraged by rejection, for the truth is always worth standing for. Hold on to God’s promises and continue to walk in His light.
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Prayer of Salvation
Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I believe that You died for my sins and rose again to give me eternal life. I repent of my sins and turn to You as my Lord and Savior. Come into my heart, cleanse me, and make me new. From this day forward, I choose to follow You and live according to Your will. Thank You for saving me. Amen.
