FREEDOM of expression or the right to free speech is one of the more enshrined rights protected in most democracies. While the Philippine Constitution admits a few exceptions to this free speech, such as obscenity or pornography, there has been a rampant circulation of insulting or “fighting words”, libelous statements and some fake news, which have the tendency to destabilize society. Authors of these words and fake news come from all sectors—from powerful politicians to paid bloggers. Without extensive comprehension of real issues, ordinary recipients may begin believing what are essentially lies.
A simple “Like” or share on social media may even have its own harms. I am not fully aware of the developments in the new cybercrime law in the Philippines, but I would not be surprised if subscribing to fake news will lead to criminal liability. The simple act of clicking—and doing so without critical thinking—helps spread the lie.
In certain organizations or cults, gifted speakers have fooled many followers to simply listen and act without discernment. History tells us how a charismatic Adolf Hitler, ably assisted by master propagandist Paul Joseph Goebbels, managed to win the trust of countless of Germans prior to World War II. We must not blindly agree to take the word of leaders who impose their standards on their followers. The simple act of irresponsible idolizing helps circulate the false and immoral beliefs.
Whenever text messages go unanswered, some people use the flimsy excuse of “bad connection” or “not getting it”. While our Internet connection and telecommunications service can be bad; it can’t be that bad—all the time! Unfortunately, for such liars with lame excuses, technology today allows for the “read” or “sent” receipt to be seen. The simple excuse of bad service helps form the habit of lying.
In Psalms 12:1-2, the Bible says, “Help, Lord, for no one is faithful anymore; those who are loyal have vanished from the human race. Everyone lies to their neighbor; they flatter with their lips but harbor deception in their hearts.” As the verse implies, the attributes of a good liar are “flattering lips” and a “double heart”. To flatter is to gratify with much insincerity. Those gifted with flattering lips say what others want to hear; they are those who know the right answer for every occasion, without necessarily speaking the truth.
Famous English writer and preacher Thomas Adams once said, “A man without a heart is a wonder, but a man with two hearts is a monster.” A person with a double heart is one whose one heart speaks the words the world wants to hear while the other harbors his true feelings. And there have been quite a few monsters in our midst here in the Philippines under the guise of exercising free speech. While I can name a few, invoking my freedom of expression, I prefer not to. After all, one by one, they are slowly exposed.
In legal proceedings, witnesses are required to take an oath, which, among others, imposes the duty of telling the truth and nothing but the truth. In the Philippine Military Academy, cadets observe the Honor Code, which, among others, imposes the duty of not lying or tolerating others who do so. But despite all of these codes and oaths, there are still a few who display flattering lips and a double heart. I personally find it disconcerting every time I hear academy graduates get involved in activities of dishonor.
Fortunately, there is one who is incapable of lying. In Hebrews 6:18, it has been said that by virtue of his oath and promise, it is impossible for God to lie. While the Bible is subject to many interpretations, there are absolute truths that have passed the scrutiny of criticism, doubts and revelations from scientists and philosophers. Only with inspired minds with the aid of the Spirit within us can we come to understand that the Bible does contain the truth. Words of the Bible, of the President, of anonymous propagandists, or of anyone spreading news, fake or otherwise, are valuable and effective only up to the extent as to how the recipient will react to them. Liars think they can get away with their deceit. They can get away with lies only when we allow them to pollute our minds. We just have to remember that no secrets remain unrevealed and, more importantly, as in Luke 8:17 tells us, “for nothing is hidden that shall not become evident, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light”. No amount of lies can affect those who think before they click, those who discern before they subscribe, and those who remain faithful to His Word.
For questions and comments, please e-mail me at sbmison@gmail.com.