"Can something painful and disturbing be as edifying as something innocent and joyful?" (2). This discussion about conscience is prevalent in today's Christian community, and it is one that we must take seriously. Is it okay that believers have different convictions? Is it subjective or objective?
"And herin do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men." (1)
Keeping a clear conscience toward God is vital in a believer's faith journey, and it does take work. This world desires to take a hold of our minds and conform us to their perspectives. Yet, through Christ's strength, we have the ability to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We must tie up our laces, every morning, and gear up for a day filled with such exercise.
Conscience is that ability within me that attaches itself to the highest standard I know, and then continually reminds me of what that standard demands that I do. It is the eye of the soul which looks out either toward God or toward what we regard as the highest standard. This explains why conscience is different in different people. If I am in the habit of continually holding God’s standard in front of me, my conscience will always direct me to God’s perfect law and indicate what I should do.
The question is, will I obey? I have to make an effort to keep my conscience so sensitive that I can live without any offense toward anyone. I should be living in such perfect harmony with God’s Son that the spirit of my mind is being renewed through every circumstance of life, and that I may be able to quickly "prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." (3)
God always instructs us down to the last detail. Is my ear sensitive enough to hear even the softest whisper of the Spirit, so that I know what I should do? "And grieve not the holy Spirit of God." (4). He does not speak with a voice like thunder— His voice is so gentle that it is easy for us to ignore. And the only thing that keeps our conscience sensitive to Him is the habit of being open to God on the inside.
When you begin to debate, stop immediately. Don’t ask, “Why can’t I do this?” You are on the wrong track. There is no debating possible once your conscience speaks. Whatever it is— drop it, and see that you keep your inner vision clear.
"My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you." (2)
As believers, we have the life of God's Son, Jesus Christ, in us. Consequently, I believe that His commands to us are actually given to the person of Christ in us, and that our human nature in and of itself despises the notion to obey. Yet, as Christ is formed in us, these commands to remain pure in thought and action become divinely easy.
I disagree with McCracken. He sees conscience as a scale which reveals the maturity of the believer. The more one is able to observe with a clear conscience, the more mature they are. I would beg to differ. I believe that all believers must attain to a higher standard, and that complacency and conformance are not healthy in our pursuit of following Jesus Christ, and serving Him as Lord.
1. Acts 24:16, KJV.
2. McCracken, Brett. "Crossing the Line." Relevant 46 (July, 2010). http://www.relevantmagazine.com/culture/film/crossing-line-0Article.
3. Galatians 4:19, KJV.
4. Romans 12:2, KJV.
5. Ephesians 4:30, KJV.
