Pilate said: "... what is truth?" Given the circumstances of this
statement, it sounds a bit "off hand"; that is, treating a deep subject
as a trivial or an inconsequential matter. But what if it was not?
Suppose Pilate had considered "Truth" and decided on his own parameters
of the concept? This could be true; Pilate might well have been a man
of introspection and contemplation. Men of importance were placed in
positions of importance by an Emperor who wanted to STAY Emperor. The
thing about Pilate was- he didn't recognize ABSOLUTE TRUTH when it was
right in front of him. This error was a product of his thinking,
undoubtedly influenced greatly by the power and majesty of ancient
Rome. In Pilate's mind, it is easy to see how Rome's greatness would
preclude any genuine wisdom outside of that originating from that great
city on the Tiber. Yet, truth there was- and truth that had a wisdom
embedded within it that was of a calibre that put the glory of Rome to
shame. Yes, it was his "thinking" that blinded Pilate and the question
that comes to mind this cold morning is... What do I think about- and
why? As a starting point, please consider the following passage from
the book of Philippians...
Philippians, Chapter 4
8
Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are
honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever
things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any
virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things. 9 The things which you learned, received, heard, and saw in me: do these things, and the God of peace will be with you. 10 But
I rejoice in the Lord greatly, that now at length you have revived your
thought for me; in which you did indeed take thought, but you lacked
opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect to lack, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content in it. 12 I
know how to be humbled, and I know also how to abound. In everything
and in all things I have learned the secret both to be filled and to be
hungry, both to abound and to be in need. 13 I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.
Paul was a subject of Rome; he was part of a conquered people. But he
was free because of his thinking. Not free by his own efforts, but
rather free because he considered, correctly recognized and OBEYED the
WILL OF GOD as revealed through Jesus. He intellectually considered the
things that were profitable for correct living (verse 8) and
practically acted upon those truths (verse 9). So, his thinking led to a
God-controlled life. No obstacle was so great that it could not be
overcome, no concept so lofty that the Almighty did not have the perfect
answer. Nothing in Heaven or Earth can overcome the will of God in the
lives of those dedicated to serve HIM!!! And so we come to the graphic
above; for it is not just a bottle, it is a prism. For me, it
represents the word of God, through which I perceive all things. And
when I do this, I am able to perceive both truth in concept and in daily
living. And it is truly beautiful!!! Too bad Pilate couldn't get
it!!! Do you???
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