Truthfulness
Complete truthfulness is only possible where sin has been uncovered, and forgiven by Jesus. Only those who are in a state of truthfulness through the confession of their sin to Jesus are not ashamed to tell the truth wherever it must be told. The truthfulness which Jesus demands from his followers is the self-abnegation which does not hide sin. Nothing is then hidden, everything is brought forth to the light of day.
In this chapter on truthfulness Bonhoeffer takes a look at Jesus' words in Matthew 5:33-37. This passage deals with the idea of oaths/promises. Bonhoeffer cleverly stated that the only reason oaths exist is because of the possibility of telling a lie. He then goes on to say that oaths would not, and ultimately should not, be necessary for someone who tells nothing but the truth, therefore encouraging both you and I to abstain from telling lies as they do not edify anyone. The most powerful quote from this passage falls in verse 37 where Jesus instructs those around Him to let there "yes" be "yes" and their "no" be "no."
Consider this a personal challenge. First of all, try to think of a time where you have lied and it has had no negative consequences. Secondly, try to abstain from lying, try to only utter the truth. This includes exaggerations and embellishment.
I am currently trying this... And it is way harder than you may think... Much easier said than done.
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