In a world of information and instant search, Google has become the first choice of access to whatever facts or media we might be looking for. We seem to depend on the internet for almost every kind of information. Google has become a verb in our everyday life. Have you tried to google your name and then learn that somewhere in another part of the world, someone has the same name?

Currently, more people rely on the internet for news and events than on traditional media, such as newspapers, radio and television. Wikipedia offers a comprehensive range of entries for the inquiring mind. Social networking sites, like Facebook and Twitter, cater to the human craving for intimacy and interpersonal connections. Companies and government agencies rely on their websites to distribute relevant information for clients and citizens alike. There is no doubt, most of us use the world wide web for sourcing consumer information on products and services. Of course, I am pleased to learn how newcomers found our church by a quick search on the internet. Our church website has become a source of learning when individuals listen to past sermons or perhaps read our newsletters.

This leads to a pertinent question: Can we trust the Internet sources that provide information and data on the subject of our search? How do we know if the source is reliable and credible? How do we discern the truth in the midst of diverse opinions and comments posted on the websites? If we are searching for truth regarding the Christian faith on the web, how can we determine the authenticity and authority of the source?

We can certainly read the Bible in a variety of translations online. Commentaries, sermons, and studies on the Bible are easily accessible. The internet offers ideas, opinions, comments, and reviews on all matters of faith, practice and values. But truth is not subject to popular sentiments. Our views of God and Jesus Christ are not dependent on the number of websites that support the Bible’s claim that Jesus is the Son of God. So while we are cautious about what we read on Wikipedia, we should be equally cautious about Wikileaks. What if the information “leaked” through the internet is intended to subvert the truth by propagating “half-truths” or “true lies”? Is there a conspiracy of truth regarding the Good News of Jesus Christ? Are there “secrets” revealed by self-declared prophets who are motivated by self-serving agendas? How can we discern the true message when deceptive and dangerous ideas are widely disseminated by those who conspire to undermine the Christian faith?

The internet has become a global arena for the contest of ideas and beliefs. When an idea is conceived and then inserted into our minds, that idea becomes so real and authentic that we take it for granted as if we have always believed in it. Thus, the inception of any idea is as dangerous and as powerful as the source itself. When we investigate the source, we are able to discern the veracity of the idea. When Jesus confronted the Pharisees who questioned his knowledge and authority, he said, “If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.” (John 8:46-47) Only those who belong to God will welcome the truth in Jesus Christ and thereby obey the words of Jesus. When we know the truth, that truth will set us free from our ignorance, our pride, and our prejudices. Knowing the source of all truth means coming to know the God of all truth. Ultimately, it is who we know that matters more than what we know. Those who belong to God know Him personally. We are invited to trust God’s Word, to listen carefully to Jesus, and to live in light of the Holy Spirit’s illumination. Caveat lector!