Title: Determining The Truth
Series: Freedom In The Gospel – Part 1
Text: Galatians 1:8-10

In age where all kinds of ideologies, philosophies, and lifestyles compete for our attention and allegiance, how can we determine what truth is? How can we discern right from wrong, sound teachings from heresy? What should we look out for?

General Questions:

1. Would you consider yourself as someone who can tell the real from the fake when it comes to your Christian faith? Why do you say so? 

Perspective Questions:

1. We tend to associate the truth of a message with the accolades, achievements, or acquisitions of the messengers, instead of evaluating the message for what it is.  On the other hand, it is sometimes useful to know the background of the messenger to help us to evaluate the message. How do you think we can, based on the facts available, discern whether the message is true and can be trusted?  

2. What do you think is the difference between a “growing teacher” versus a “false teacher”? What attitudes should we adopt towards teachers or preachers who are imbalanced or make mistakes in their teachings, versus those who persistently propagate wrong teachings?

3. Do you see the Bible as the ultimate source of truth to guide all aspects of your life, or are there other sources of ‘truth’ or wisdom that you hold on to? For example, think about the usual things that you say when you encourage people around you – is it usually based on worldly wisdom or on God’s truth? What do you do when what you believe contradicts with God’s truth? 

Application Questions:

1. What are areas in your life where you had believed or tolerated half-truths or lies because it is difficult to follow God’s truth? How can you stop conforming to the patterns of the world and allow your mind to be transformed by God’s Word?

2. We usually fall easily for half-truths and lies that appeal to us. How can you overcome the tendency to listen only to what you want to hear?