What Do You Believe?

by John Tilton on May 11, 2026

SCRIPTURE:

"While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, telling them, ‘You are to say, 'His disciples came during the night and stole him away while we were asleep.' If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.’ So, the soldiers took the money and did as they were instructed. And this story has been widely circulated among the Jews to this very day.’”

Matthew 28:11-15

 

OBSERVATION:

The guards did not have any idea what profound history was being set at that time. In their mind, all they probably thought was that they were following instructions, that they were rewarded, and that they were satisfying the superior, the governor.

APPLICATION:

Is it right and best to follow what a leader is telling you, if it is wrong? If you will be given a reward in return? If you it means appeasing leadership even if it is not in align with God’s will and Word? There is a sense of responsibility that we are called to do everything we are asked and told to do if it is from authority. However, if we know it is clearly against God’s will and authority, may we not continue the wrong.

I read an article in the news, where a false narrative was reported. Politicians, and all their peers joined in agreement continuing and defending the false narrative. However, what they didn’t realize is that video was taken of the situation, proving that the whole false narrative incorrect. That’s where our society is currently where we often don’t know what to believe. However, we as believers are to stand up for the Lord’s will and truth. God is our supreme authority, and His will and commands are what we need to follow.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord, may I be discerning in who I will believe and stand on. May I always be led by the Holy Spirit who leads me, guides me, and gives me discernment. May I stand on your truth and promises.

About the Author

John Tilton

Senior Pastor John Tilton has served at New Hope Oahu since it’s launch in 1995, and has been on staff in administration and as executive pastor for the past 14 years. The values and heart behind New Hope run deeply through Pastor John’s veins as he has trained, learned, and was mentored closely by Pastor Wayne.

A graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama and the University of Hawaii at Mānoa, Pastor John holds his Masters in Formational Leadership from Lancaster Bible College & Capital Seminary. He has served in various leadership, mentorship, and advisory roles in ministry and in the marketplace. He currently serves as Vice President of New Hope International and is on the Board of Directors of both Pacific Rim Christian University and New Hope Christian College. 

Pastor John is married to his amazing wife Lanu, is father to his son Ikaika, daughter Malie, son-in-law Noni, is Papa to his grandchildren Justice, Johanna, and Jordynn, all of whom serve in ministry as a family together at New Hope Oahu.

Pastor John’s heart is to love and shepherd the people of New Hope Oahu––both here on Oahu and globally across the world. He will seek to continue to develop leaders, enable people here to dream with vision and purpose for God’s unique call on their lives, and, most importantly, to seek God as He faithfully guides our church so that we can fully become the church, and the people, He has created and called us to be.

Name:


Previous Page

More