Live a Life of Transparency and Integrity
Rev. Tse Amable | October 10 2024 | John 18:19-24
KEY VERSE:
“I HAVE SPOKEN OPENLY TO THE WORLD,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I SAID NOTHING IN SECRET.” John 18:20 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
Transparency means not having anything to hide. It implies openness and accountability. To be transparent means people can see through your outward conduct and appearance into your heart (“THE REAL YOU”) in the way people can see your body when you wear transparent (“see-through”) clothing. Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. It implies trustworthiness and incorruptibility to a degree that one is incapable of being false to a trust, responsibility, or pledge. It is a life of probity – tried, tested and proven honesty.
Jesus Christ possessed all these qualities. In his own words, he conducted his ministry openly before the world. He never said or did anything in secret besides the hours he spent in solitary places communing with his Father in prayer. Even in his final moments in the Garden of Gethsemane, he was not alone. He was there in the company of Peter, James and John. That appeared to be his custom.
When you are a person of integrity and live a transparent life of righteousness, it gives you boldness and confidence. You can respond to any suit filed in court against you, knowing with that your transparency and integrity will be your witness before any judge. You know your innocence is as clear as pure water (not galamsey water). It is on account of Jesus Christ’s integrity and transparency that he could confidently address Annas, the High Priest with the words we read in our key verse for today.
The Bible says “the man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out” (Proverbs 10:9)
Live a life of transparency and integrity because it will save you from the false accusations of your adversaries.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Are you living your life in the full glare of the public? Is there anything you have done in the past or you are currently doing which is an open secret – known to all – which can be used against you?
PRAYER:
Lord, help me to avoid every hidden act of dishonesty. Empower me to live a transparent life so that I can answer any accusation boldly and confidently. Amen!
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: OPENLY The word"openly" is derived from the Greek word parrēsía (παρρησία), which conveys a sense of boldness and unreservedness in speech. It reflects the idea of speaking candidly, without fear of judgment or retribution.
Jesus asserts in John 18:20 that He has spoken "openly" to the world, highlighting His willingness to share His message without reservation. This openness not only emphasizes His transparency but also serves to invite genuine engagement from those who hear Him The significance of "openly" extends beyond mere communication; it embodies a lifestyle of authenticity and vulnerability. As believers, embracing this principle challenges us to remove barriers of secrecy in our own lives. When we speak and act transparently, we create spaces for accountability and deeper relationships. This openness reflects God's nature and allows us to be more receptive to His guidance while fostering an environment where others feel safe to share and grow.
Reflections:
In what ways can you cultivate a spirit of openness in your life? Are there areas where you feel the need to be more transparent, and how can that impact your relationships with others and your relationship with God?
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