by Saju C.Varghese

JOHN 17:17

17 ". . . Your word is truth.

According to Jesus, the Word of God is truth. Yet many people proclaim quite different messages -- all using the Bible as their text. How can you know who to believe?

Jesus also told us that continuing to abide in the Word of God would produce freedom -- not bondage.

JOHN 8:31-32

31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, "If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.

32 "And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

So, look at the fruit produced by the message proclaimed. Is it freedom? If not, then it must not be the ACCURATE message of Jesus Christ.

The true message of Jesus Christ will set people free -- not put them in bondage. It truly is good news, and makes people happy when they correctly understand it.

JOHN 10:10

10 "The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.

If it produces death, stealing, or destruction, it is not God's plan for you. Jesus came so you could have life in all the fullness God intended.

What you need to do now is simple:

1) Stop listening to lies.

Anything that makes you think God does not love you, or that you are hopeless or helpless -- is a lie. God is not against you or mad at you. All your troubles have been caused by the devil, and your ignorance, not by God.

2) Listen to the truth.

God's truth is good news. It will build you up -- and give you an inheritance. It will give you good things, not take anything good away from you.

ACTS 20:32

32 "So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all those who are sanctified.

Primarily, you need to read the New Testament for yourself. Don't just listen to what others tell you that God says. And before you read, ask the Lord to teach you and reveal Himself to you.

Secondarily, listen to teachers and preachers who feed you the Word of God which builds your faith and makes you love and appreciate God more. Otherwise, quit listening to them.