Tired of the Lies

No More Fake News: Seeking Truth at All Costs

Scripture References

Primary text

• John 3:1
• John 3:16
• John 7
• John 19:39

Other references

• 1 Corinthians 13:12
• John 8:32

Overview

Truth is hard to spot in a world of headlines, life-hacks, and “my truth.” Yet real truth, though it may sting, always brings freedom. Looking at Nicodemus’ three appearances in John’s Gospel, Pastor Sam urged us to predetermine—before the pressure comes—that we will seek truth at any cost. As we wrestle with identity, community, and eternity, the fake news falls away and Jesus, “the Truth,” sets us free.

Context

• Week 3 of the “Think Ahead” series built around Pastor Craig’s new book.
• The opener contrasted absurd internet headlines with the question, “What is truth?” and rallied every location to shout,

“Tell the truth.”
• Nicodemus’ story (garden, temple, cross) frames the message.

Main Points

1. The truth about your identity

• Nicodemus thought status, scholarship, and tradition defined him; Jesus said, “You must be born again.”
• What you believe shapes who you are becoming—so ask, “Do I like who I’m becoming?”
• Illustration: men flex in a mirror to feel better about a dad-bod; women often see only flaws—both reveal inner narratives.
• Story: Pastor Sam’s decade-long battle with secret porn left him staring into the mirror, whisper-yelling, “I hate you…God will never use you.” Freedom began when he confessed, found accountability, and exchanged lies for God’s declarations.
• Change what you say to change what you see: identity must rest on God’s Word, not self-made affirmations.

“Fake news! In Christ you are more than a conqueror.”

• A QR code resource of Bible-based declarations (“Words to Live By”) was offered for practical help.

2. The truth about your community

• John 7 shows Nicodemus risking reputation to question the rushed arrest of Jesus: real friends value truth over mob opinion.
• “Show me your friends and I’ll show you your future.”
• Toxic circles, stagnant life-groups, drama-filled feeds, and unhealthy dating relationships must be confronted—break up, log off, speak up.
• Proverbs warns that hanging out with fools wrecks a life; wisdom grows in wise company.
• Evaluate: Are my closest voices sharpening me or dulling me?

3. The truth about your eternity

• Everyone serves a master—money, fame, comfort, or Christ.
• John 19:39: at Jesus’ death, Nicodemus publicly brings about 75 lbs (a king’s ransom) of myrrh and aloes—an extravagant burial fit for royalty. It cost him wealth and status, but he finally declared, “Jesus is my King.”
• Truth isn’t a concept to collect but a Person to trust. The empty tomb proves the headline “Jesus is dead” was …

“Fake news!”

• John 8:32 promises that knowing Jesus the Truth brings freedom now and forever.

Key Truths

• Knowing facts about Jesus is not the same as believing in Jesus.
• Identity built on anything other than God’s Word eventually collapses.
• Community either clarifies or clouds our pursuit of truth.
• What we chase reveals whom we serve; eternity is shaped by that choice.
• Real freedom begins the moment we trade every lie for the living Truth, Jesus.

Response

• Examine the words you speak over yourself; replace every lie with Scripture-anchored declarations.
• Audit your circle of friends and groups; pursue relationships that hunger for truth.
• Decide today which master you will serve and reorder your priorities accordingly.
• When confronted with cultural or internal “fake news,” answer aloud with God’s truth.
• Share your story of freedom to help someone else recognize the Truth.

Closing

Pastor Sam invited anyone tired of lies to predetermine a life of truth, raising hands across every location. Then, echoing Nicodemus’ journey from secrecy to boldness, he called listeners to step from knowing about Jesus to believing in Him for new birth.

“No more guilt, no more shame—my life belongs to Jesus.”

Prayer

The congregation prayed a salvation prayer together, surrendering to Jesus, receiving forgiveness, and declaring Him Lord, followed by loud celebration.

Resources

• Book: “Think Ahead” by Pastor Craig Groeschel
• Message & worksheet: “Words to Live By” (QR code with Bible-based declarations)