#16 Absolute truth

by | 2nd Semester

With certainty, we all teach our children that 2 + 2 = 4.  No matter what language we speak, math and the laws of nature are the same.  Every culture has used mathematics because it is not random or unpredictable; it is universal. The Pythagorean theorem a^2 + b^2 = c^2 is based on the fact that if you know the length of two sides of a right triangle, you can calculate the length of the third side ~ always, every time.

Math in China developed quite independently leading to one of the greatest feats in human history, the Great Wall of China.  Grand projects during the Qin dynasty (221-207 B.C.) used advanced mathematics to calculate volume, area and proportion.

Math photo

Photo by AJC1

In modern times, Einstein’s theory of relativity E=mc^2 is based on the fact that the speed of light is constant ~ it doesn’t change even if it is in a vacuum.  Physics is possible because the laws of mathematics are constant and absolutely true.

With such certainty in the physical realm, it makes you wonder if there can be certainty in other areas of our life, like the existence of God or His love.  Is it constant? Does it change? Is it universal?

Bible Reading   John 14:1-6

We live in a day and age when many people say that there are no absolute truths.  In other words, people may say that what’s true for you may not be true for me.  But we know there are some absolute truths, like 2 + 2 = 4 and a^2 + b^2 = c^2 and E=mc^2 ~ and those truths are not based on if I understand them.  Absolute truth is absolutely true even if one believes that it isn’t.

Jesus said he is the Bread of Life, the Light of the World, the Gate, the Good Shepherd and the True Vine; but one of the most profound statements Jesus made is this:

Jesus said, I am the way, the truth and the life.   John 14:6

This statement was made when Jesus was speaking to his disciples about his death.  Jesus was comforting his disciples telling them to not be troubled.  He said, “Trust in God and trust also in me.  I am going to prepare a place for you.”

If what Jesus said is true, it is the greatest absolute truth of all time for everyone!

Discussion

  1. What laws of nature do you know that are absolutely true?
  2. What do you see in nature every day that is constant that you can’t explain?
  3. What do you think is the greatest statement that Jesus made about who he is?

Word List

  • universal – applying in all cases to everyone everywhere
  • Pythagorean theorem – geometric law of the right triangle formulated by Pythagoras (circa 500 B.C.), a Greek mathematician
  • feats – an achievement that requires great courage, skill and strength
  • absolute truth – something that is true at all times and in all places, always true no matter what the circumstances, a fact that cannot be changed

Read More  Life Sketch of Jesus