In this sermon titled “My Truth, Your Truth, God’s Truth,” based on Judges 17, Pastor Allen Victor explored the profound issues that arise when society rejects absolute truth and embraces moral relativism. The world today faces numerous challenges such as corrupt politicians, economic inequalities, social injustices, and rampant misinformation. These issues are symptomatic of a deeper spiritual problem, one vividly illustrated in the biblical account of Micah in Judges 17:1-6.

Micah, from the mountains of Ephraim, confessed to his mother that he had stolen eleven hundred shekels of silver, on which she had placed a curse. Surprisingly, she blessed him upon his confession, and dedicated the silver to the Lord to create a carved image and a molded image. Micah set up a shrine, made an ephod and household idols, and consecrated one of his sons as his priest. The narrative underscores that in those days, there was no king in Israel, and everyone did what was right in their own eyes. Micah saw nothing wrong with stealing, worshiping idols, or making his son a priest, exemplifying the pervasive moral relativism of the time.

Pastor Allen highlighted the dangers of moral relativism, where truth becomes subjective, based on culture, society, and personal feelings. It creates a scenario where everyone is their own king, determining their own truth, which leads to chaotic and self-destructive behaviors. To illustrate, we were asked to consider whether actions like adultery, theft, rape, or lying can be deemed wrong if there are no absolute truths. The inherent contradiction in denying absolute truth was demonstrated through an essay scenario: a student argues that absolute truth doesn’t exist, only to face a failing grade, which exposes the flaw in their argument.

Pastor Allen discussed how to confront moral relativism using logical questioning, holding people to their beliefs, and showing the consequences of their views. Real-life applications were made with provocative questions about murder, rape, and idolatry, demonstrating the absurdity and danger of living without absolute truth. For instance, if someone’s belief system justifies murder or rape, society would collapse into chaos.

The sermon referenced Jesus’ declaration, “I am the way, the truth, and the life,” emphasizing the importance of truth in showing us right from wrong, guiding us to salvation, and revealing God’s nature. Despite truth being under attack, it always prevails. Believers are encouraged to know, live, and share the truth, as shown in Judges 17:7-13, where a young Levite becomes Micah’s personal priest, violating God’s law. This highlighted the perils of corrupting spiritual roles for personal gain, mirroring today’s challenges in maintaining integrity within the church.

We observed that Micah’s actions were driven by superstition and a corrupted view of the priesthood. Micah believed he would be blessed simply because he had a Levite as his priest, showcasing the flawed human tendency to rely on superstitions rather than true faith in God. We discussed various superstitious practices and how true faith in Jesus frees us from such empty rituals.

Pastor Allen concludes the sermon with a call to examine our motivations for ministry, reminding us that serving God is a calling, not a career. Hebrews 5:4 and Matthew 9:36-38 emphasize that genuine ministry stems from a God-given burden and a heart for people. We must avoid corrupt motives like power, financial gain, and public recognition, focusing instead on serving God and His people with humility and love.

Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, under the leadership of Pastor Allen Victor, invites you to delve deeper into these truths and reflect on how you can combat moral relativism in your own life and community.

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