Who Can I Trust?

The message explores the theme of trustworthiness and the importance of keeping one's word, with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:33-37 as the foundation. I use examples from modern culture, including politicians, athletes, and religious leaders, to illustrate how easily people break their promises and damage their credibility. With so many leaders, politicians, pundits, and Christians willing to lie, who can I trust?

The message contrasts Jesus' high standards for truth and integrity with the behavior of the Pharisees, who found loopholes to justify dishonesty. Jesus emphasizes that a simple "yes" or "no" should be enough, warning against unnecessary oaths and deceitful practices.

The sermon also touches on the broader societal implications of dishonesty, explaining how broken promises can erode trust within communities, families, and even religious institutions. I call for Christians to reflect on their own integrity, stressing that truthfulness is essential to maintaining relationships and reflecting Christ-like behavior.¹

1. I delivered this sermon on Matthew 5:33-37 at Pathways Community Church in Santee, CA on July 14, 2013.