Message summary: We are flooded with lies from every side intended to deceive us, thus discernment is vital. In so many areas I now just assume I am being lied to. At least I start with that premise. Political ads are full of lies. Brooksyne got a text this morning with a blatant lie designed to frighten. Let's consider a man well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself.

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"Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true" (3 John 1:12).

It's election day here in the USA when our national, as well as other state and local leaders are "chosen". Actually it's been more like election season. Since we live in a swing state we have been flooded with every type of advertising: texts, calls, tv, radio, internet and highway billboards.

In our Adult Bible Fellowship (AKA Sunday School) our class begins with a time of sharing prayer requests. On Sunday Jeff, an earnest quiet man who is a retired electrician, led the opening. We prayed concerning the election and he reminded us of God's sovereignty over the affairs of men by stating, "Whatever happens, the Man on the middle cross still reigns". Can I get an "Amen" for that!

In light of the election I've been musing on the topic of leadership in the Bible. In the Old Testament a great focus is on the lives of the kings who reigned and ultimately led their people.

In the New Testament we have the record of Christ's ministry here on earth and then after His Ascension the story of the early church. References to secular, political leadership are incidental such as Herod's gory demise in Acts 12:20-23.

Demetrius is an obscure Bible character whose brief but very informative reference is found in 3 John 1:12: "Demetrius is well spoken of by everyone—and even by the truth itself. We also speak well of him, and you know that our testimony is true". Does anyone you know come to mind with this same description? We can learn from the example of Demetrius as part of the Holy Scriptures according to 2 Timothy 3:16,17.

"Well spoken of by everyone". What a great blessing these words are.  Few people can be described in this way and even fewer politicians!

"And even by the truth itself". This seems to mean he is genuine through and through.

"We also speak well of him". John and other leaders attested to his sound character.

"And you know that our testimony is true".  John was confident that those who knew Demetrius would testify to the truthfulness of this testimony.

We end today's message with three challenges:

Be encouraged today, Hebrews 3:13

"Keep me true"   Listen on YouTube   Jabu Hlongwane, a South African musician. Although this probably has more the sense of being faithful it's a good song of aspiration.