TRUTH IS NARROW
Mike Johnson
Truth is narrow. This concept is easy to see, and most people understand it. Consider an illustration from science. We know under ordinary conditions, water freezes at 32 degrees at sea level. Suppose a scientist says, “I am very broad in my scientific beliefs. I am not one of you scientific bigots who insist water freezes at just 32 degrees, and all who think differently are wrong. Just so people are sincere; it does not matter what their view is about the point when water freezes.”
The above attitude would be considered nonsense in science, with no one taking such a person seriously. Yet, views thought ludicrous in other fields are perfectly acceptable in religion. This is because the attitude exists that truth is relative, and it does not matter what one believes, providing that sincerity exists. People, according to many, can believe what they want to about the Bible without any adverse consequences.
With the Bible, as in other fields, truth is narrow, and we must strictly adhere to its teachings. II John 9 points out that if people do not abide in the doctrine, or teaching, of Christ, they do not have God. Jesus reveals, “. . . Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up” (Mt. 15:13). In this passage, He is discussing the hypocritical Pharisees who also engaged in false teaching. The writer of Hebrews makes it clear that salvation is only for those who obey the Lord (Heb. 5:9). The way to heaven is even described as “narrow” or “restricted,” while the road to hell is called the “broad” way (Mt. 7:13-14).
When it comes to God’s Word, truth is essential. Only “truth” can set us free from sin (Jn. 8:32). It does matter what one believes, teaches, and practices!