Can there really be freedom without the real truth?

on Oct 24, 2025

Finding truth amongst the lies. Dreamstime/TCA

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Freedom of speech has been a hallmark of our nation, but I’m afraid to say that it is taking the place of truth. Can there really be freedom without the real truth? – F.T.

A: “The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God” is a familiar oath. It precedes a sworn testimony given by a witness who has made a commitment to speak truth – no matter what. If the witness is later found to have lied while under oath, the person can be charged with the crime of perjury. This is not just in the United States; similar oaths are used in courtrooms in many countries.

There has been a great falling away from the truth, and often those who are found to be liars go unpunished. The Bible warns, however, that when judgment comes, so will their punishment.

The great quest for life has always been to find truth. Universities are filled with seekers who want to know the truth. But often when they find truth, they reject it and turn in another direction to find a truth that makes them feel better about their defiance of the truth.

One of the strongest and frequently used phrases from Jesus was this: “I tell you the truth.” Jesus did not say we would know a truth; He spoke the truth. The Bible does not contain God’s truth; Jesus is Truth. He is the Son of God and the Savior of the world. The psalmist declared, “The entirety of Your word is truth” (Psalm 119:160, NKJV).

If our minds and hearts are not filled with God’s truth, something else will take its place. There are those who seek freedom more than the truth. They are free to reject the truth, but the freedom they choose will not set them free. “You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32, NKJV).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)