Finding Truth in a World of Deepfakes

In a world of deepfakes, artificially generated content that looks real, and algorithms quietly shaping the way we think, our culture is wrestling with a deeply important question: What is real, and what is true? As the world changes rapidly and truth becomes harder to recognize, the heart of the Christian faith reminds us that the source of all truth put on flesh and blood, broke into our broken world, and walked among us. Jesus came not only to save us, but to give us the clearest picture of truth we could ever ask for.

Truth has a name: Jesus. In a world of shifting voices and competing versions of reality, we can hold on to the truth that has existed since the foundation of creation—a truth that remains unchanged in a world that never seems to stop changing. When truth feels harder and harder to recognize, we can hold on to the unchanging truth of Jesus.

Colossians 1:15–23

15 He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. 16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. 17 And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. 19 For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, 20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. 21 And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, 22 he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him, 23 if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.

For Adult Homes and Groups

Read Colossians 1:15–23, John 14:5–7, Hebrews 1:1–4, and Hebrews 13:7–9, then reflect on these questions:

1. What do these passages tell you about who Jesus is and why He can be trusted as the clearest picture of what is real and true?

2. Jesus says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” How does that change the way you think about truth - not simply as something to understand, but as someone to know and follow?

3. Hebrews 13 reminds us that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” Where are the changing voices, messages, or influences around you making it difficult to recognize or hold on to what is true?

4. If “Truth has a name: Jesus,” what would it look like for you to hold more firmly to Him this week?

For Families with Kids

1. Read Colossians 1:15–23 together as a family. Fun fact: this is known as the Christ Hymn in Scripture.

2. Look around the room. What do you see that will eventually break or go away? Verse 17 says Jesus holds all things together. How does it feel to know Jesus is keeping the whole world safe in His hands? Since Jesus is always real and never changes, how can we talk to Him when we feel scared or sad?

3. We spend a lot of time on “virtual” things like video games, social media, or screens. How do those things compare to the permanent truth of Jesus?

4. Pray this prayer together: “Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Creator and keeper of everything we see. When the world around us changes, help us remember that You are the only real, unchanging foundation for our lives. Keep our eyes fixed on You this week. Amen.”