Candour and Honesty

Trust begins with honesty. When someone is known for speaking truthfully, we’re more likely to trust them. But just one lie can undo that trust.

The Bible was written by people who spoke with heartfelt openness. Their honesty gives the Scriptures a clear and trustworthy tone.

Admitting Mistakes

The Bible writers didn’t hide their own flaws. Moses shared a costly mistake he made.

“Take the rod and gather the assembly together, you and Aaron your brother, and speak to the rock before their eyes so that it may give its water. You must bring out water for them from the rock and give the assembly and their livestock something to drink.”— Numbers 20:7-13

Asaph admitted he once envied the success of the wicked.

“Truly God is good to Israel, to those pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost turned aside, my steps had nearly slipped.”
— Psalm 73:1-14

Jonah confessed his disobedience and poor attitude when God showed mercy to repentant sinners.

“The word of Jehovah came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying: ‘Get up, go to Nineveh the great city, and proclaim judgment against her.’ But Jonah got up to run away from Jehovah.”— Jonah 1:1-3; 3:10; 4:1-3

Matthew didn’t hide the fact that he abandoned Jesus during his arrest.

“Then all the disciples abandoned him and fled.”— Matthew 26:56

The Hebrew Scriptures also reveal the repeated rebellion of God’s people.

“Jehovah the God of their forefathers kept sending his messages to them through his messengers, sending them again and again, because he felt compassion for his people and for his dwelling place. But they mocked the messengers of the true God.”— 2 Chronicles 36:15-16

Even rulers were held accountable.

“Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel. Prophesy and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah says: “Woe to the shepherds of Israel, who have been feeding themselves!’”— Ezekiel 34:1-10

The apostles also wrote plainly about problems among Christians and congregations.

“Now I urge you, brothers, that you all speak in agreement and that there be no divisions among you.”— 1 Corinthians 1:10-13; 2 Timothy 2:16-18; 4:10

Unflattering Truths

The Bible doesn’t hide uncomfortable facts. Early Christians admitted they were seen as foolish and lowly.

“For you see your calling, brothers, that not many were wise in a fleshly way, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth.”— 1 Corinthians 1:26-29

Jesus’ apostles were described as ordinary.

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlettered and ordinary, they were amazed.”— Acts 4:13

The Gospel writers didn’t exaggerate Jesus’ background. They wrote plainly about his humble birth, his lack of formal education, and the rejection he faced.

“They said in reply: ‘His blood be on us and on our children.’”— Matthew 27:25

“He went up from Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem.”— Luke 2:4-7

“The Jews were surprised and said: ‘How does this man have such knowledge when he has not studied at the schools?’” — John 7:15

The Bible’s honesty and accuracy are striking—they really help us to trust its message!