“Authenticity” is a popular word in our society right now. It is used in many ways and is sometimes used interchangeably with “transparency.” For instance, we live in an age that expects transparency at the highest levels of government and commerce. What we really want is to know if our leaders are “authentic” representations of their public persona.

Authenticity as we define the value at our church (Metanoia Church) involves transparency, but it also encompasses integrity, honesty, and even...