Both/And
July 11, 2025
“Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth”
John 17:17 (NIV)
Picture America’s national symbol—the eagle. In one talon, it grips 13 arrows; in the other, an olive branch. This bird doesn't choose between peace and strength. It holds both. In a similar way, Jesus never comes to you one-handed, but comes to you full of grace and truth.
Too many people today worship a make-believe Jesus who's all grace and no truth. Yale professor H. Richard Niebuhr describes it this way: "A God without wrath brings men without sin, into a kingdom without judgment, through the ministry of a Christ without a cross." John 1:14 reveals that Jesus is full of grace and truth, not half of each, but completely both.
You likely lean toward one side. Grace-leaners accept everyone but never challenge growth. Truth-leaners have conviction but can intimidate others. Something's wrong if everyone hates you, but something's equally wrong if everyone loves you.
Think of it this way: Grace declares, "There's a way to God for anyone." Then truth adds: "There's only one way." And then grace whispers, "I love you just as you are." And truth completes it with: "I love you too much to leave you that way."
In Jesus, you receive grace and truth. When Jesus dwells within you, you're full of both grace and truth as you interact with others, providing reassurance and guidance. You don't have to choose—you can love unconditionally while speaking honestly.
Prayer: God, thank You for Your grace and truth–You lead me with both. I want to receive both from You today, Lord. And help me love people completely while standing firmly on Your Word. In Jesus' Name, Amen.