The concepts of truth and righteousness are central to the biblical narrative, serving as foundational elements of God's character and His expectations for humanity. The absence of these virtues is frequently addressed in Scripture, often as a cause for divine judgment and societal decay.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the lack of truth and righteousness is often depicted as a departure from God's covenantal standards. The prophets frequently rebuke Israel for their failure to uphold these virtues. In Isaiah 59:14-15, the prophet laments, "Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands far off. For truth has stumbled in the public square, and honesty cannot enter. Truth is missing, and whoever turns from evil becomes prey." This passage highlights the societal chaos that ensues when truth and righteousness are absent.

The book of Jeremiah also addresses this issue, as God condemns the people for their deceit and unrighteousness. Jeremiah 5:1-3 states, "Go up and down the streets of Jerusalem, look around and consider, search through her squares. If you can find but one person who deals honestly and seeks the truth, I will forgive this city. Although they say, ‘As surely as the LORD lives,’ they are swearing falsely." Here, the lack of truth is directly linked to the people's unfaithfulness to God.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the absence of truth and righteousness is similarly condemned. Jesus Himself identifies as "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6), establishing truth as integral to His identity and mission. The lack of truth is seen as a characteristic of those who reject Christ. In John 8:44, Jesus confronts the Pharisees, saying, "You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, refusing to uphold the truth, because there is no truth in him."

The Apostle Paul also addresses the lack of righteousness in his epistles. In Romans 1:18, he writes, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness." Paul emphasizes that unrighteousness is not merely a moral failing but a suppression of divine truth.

Theological Implications

Theologically, the absence of truth and righteousness is seen as a rejection of God's nature and order. God is described as a God of truth (Deuteronomy 32:4) and righteousness (Psalm 11:7), and His followers are called to reflect these attributes. The lack of these virtues is often portrayed as a symptom of a deeper spiritual malaise, indicative of a heart turned away from God.

Practical Implications

Practically, the absence of truth and righteousness leads to societal and relational breakdown. Proverbs 14:34 states, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people." The lack of these virtues results in injustice, corruption, and moral confusion, affecting both individuals and communities.

Conclusion

While the Bible consistently condemns the lack of truth and righteousness, it also offers hope for restoration through repentance and faith in God. The call to return to truth and righteousness is a call to return to God Himself, who is the ultimate source of these virtues.