Evil

In the biblical context, evil is understood as a deviation from God's will and character. It is often depicted as a force or influence that opposes the goodness and holiness of God. The origin of evil is traced back to the rebellion of Satan, a fallen angel who sought to usurp God's authority. Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-17 are often interpreted as references to Satan's fall, illustrating the pride and rebellion that characterize evil.

Evil entered the human experience through the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. Genesis 3 recounts the temptation by the serpent, leading to the first sin and the subsequent curse upon creation. This event, known as the Fall, introduced sin and death into the world, as described in Romans 5:12: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."

Throughout Scripture, evil is portrayed as both a personal and systemic reality. It manifests in individual actions, such as Cain's murder of Abel (Genesis 4:8), and in broader societal corruption, as seen in the days of Noah (Genesis 6:5). The Bible warns against the deceitfulness of evil, as in Jeremiah 17:9: "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?"

The New Testament further elaborates on the nature of evil, emphasizing the spiritual battle between good and evil. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Believers are called to resist evil through faith and the armor of God (Ephesians 6:13-17).

Truth

Truth, in the biblical sense, is rooted in the character and revelation of God. It is absolute, unchanging, and embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. In John 14:6, Jesus declares, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." This statement underscores the centrality of Christ as the ultimate revelation of truth.

The Bible presents truth as both propositional and relational. It is found in the Scriptures, which are described as God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16). Psalm 119:160 affirms, "The entirety of Your word is truth, and all Your righteous judgments endure forever."

Truth is also relational, as it involves a right relationship with God and others. In John 8:31-32, Jesus tells His disciples, "If you continue in My word, you are truly My disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." This freedom is not merely intellectual but transformative, leading to a life of holiness and obedience.

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in guiding believers into all truth. John 16:13 states, "However, when the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He will not speak on His own, but He will speak what He hears, and He will declare to you what is to come." The Spirit's work ensures that believers can discern truth from falsehood and live in accordance with God's will.

In contrast to the truth, falsehood and deception are tools of evil. Satan is described as the "father of lies" in John 8:44, and believers are warned to be vigilant against false teachings and deceitful philosophies (Colossians 2:8). The pursuit of truth requires discernment, wisdom, and a commitment to God's Word as the ultimate standard of truth.