In the 1950s, most students respected their teachers, never cheated on tests, and were inclined to always tell the truth. Lying was regarded as a sin back then, but not so much anymore. From what I’ve read, today’s culture expects people to lie and cheat, seeing nothing wrong with it as long as they don’t get caught.
The end justifies the means.
What people don’t know won’t hurt them.
Sure they can’t be elected otherwise, politicians exercise special skills in telling people whatever they want to hear. Preachers are also in a precarious position. If they were to displease the people, their church attendance would drop, and they would have to find other employment.
It seems, as long as we’re looking good, we don’t have to be that concerned about being good.
Jesus identified this problem with the most respected religious leaders of his day, the Pharisees and teachers of the Law, saying they were like whitewashed sepulchers, pretty on the outside but corrupt on the inside (Matthew 23:27).
Surveys have shown that most people will lie, cheat, and steal as long as they believe they can get away with it. This may be true for everyone. At least it’s true for me.
The two most important beings in the universe would know if I told a lie. I would know, which would be terrible because I’d have to sleep with a liar. Worse yet, God would know.
Being always truthful, I will sleep well tonight.