Authenticity
Authenticity, what even is that? And why is it important?
Merriam-Webster defines authenticity in the following way: “the quality of being authentic: the quality of being authoritative, valid, true, real, or genuine” (Dictionary, 2026). Ok, so what is authentic?
Authentic is: “not false or imitation: real, actual” (Dictionary, 2026).
Now ask yourself the question, how does this apply to me as an individual? Well, think about who you are and how you represent yourself to those around you. Now, consider how you represent yourself when no one is looking or you believe that no one is looking. Is there a difference? There should not be.
That is authenticity. If you are an authentic person, a real, true, or genuine person, you conduct yourself the same regardless if you are in public or alone. You are the same whether seen or not, not two-faced or putting on a show. The significance of authenticity cannot be overlooked and when you do not have it, it will be eventually noticed.
One of the greatest examples in scripture of an individual not displaying authenticity is Judas Iscariot. Judas, one of Jesus’ twelve disciples, betrayed Him. Judas schemed with the chief priest to set Jesus up for thirty pieces of silver (English Standard Version, Matthew 26:14-16). Then, when Jesus foretells of His betrayal, Judas poses the question, “Is it I, Rabbi?” (English Standard Version, Matthew 26:25). At this point, Judas has already set the plan in motion. Judas portrayed himself to be a friend of Jesus, but ultimately betrays Him with a kiss, “Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the man; seize him.” And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed him” (English Standard Version, Matthew 26:48-49).
Jesus knew Judas’ heart, his intentions, and that his public greeting was not authentic. Judas may have publicly put on a show, an imitation of authenticity, yet he was anything but real or genuine. Judas was a fake. He looked Jesus in the face with a smile, kissed Him, and it was then that Judas' true nature was revealed.
How many tables have you sat at and put on a show? How many people have you greeted with a smile, but schemed about behind closed doors? How many people have you treated as a friend while betraying them in your heart? It is tough to look at ourselves and ask difficult questions. But that is how we grow, become more accountable, and begin to live with authenticity.
Your authenticity defines who you are and shows if you are truly genuine. Be the same person whether you are in public or behind closed doors. Authenticity is a vital component to not only you as an individual, but also the leader you are or aspire to be.
Simply put, you either live your life with authenticity or you are a fake. The choice is yours.
References
Dictionary. (2026, February 16). Retrieved from Merriam-Webster: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authentic
Dictionary. (2026, February 16). Retrieved from Merriam-Webster: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authenticity
English Standard Bible. (2001). Crossway Bibles.