Quote from Forum Archives on April 2, 2002, 9:47 pm

Posted by: masinick <masinick@...>

Dear friends,

Tuesday's Neil Anderson message, entitled A BLAMELESS CONSCIENCE,
really develops and summarizes the recent discussions we've been
having. In recent weeks, we have discussed the importance of
prayer and the importance of "renewing your mind".

Neil's message deals with issues of perfectionism, condemnation,
and our conscience. Check his scripture references out and see
if you agree with me that this is a worthwhile message to read
and understand.

Your Brother in Christ,
Brian

N E I L A N D E R S O N D A I L Y D E V O T I O N A L
from Freedom in Christ Ministries

April 2

A BLAMELESS CONSCIENCE

I also do my best to maintain always a blameless conscience both
before God and before men (Acts 24:16).

Folklore advises, "Let your conscience be your guide." This has
serious limitations since our conscience is a function of our
mind. Having been conformed to this world, the conscience can be
programmed wrongly. It is always true to its own standard. Until
we come to Christ, the standard is the world system in which we
were raised. Many people are falsely guided by a guilty
conscience--not a true guilt, but a psychological guilt usually
developed in early childhood. Satan works through this stronghold
to accuse the brethren day and night (Revelation 12:10).

People like this are usually perfectionists who labor under
condemnation, even though the Bible says there is no condemnation
for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8;1). They aren't led;
they are driven. They constantly look for affirmation. They have
a tendency to be man-pleasers. Paul said, "If I were still trying
to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ"
(Galatians 1:10). If you are striving to please men, of whom are
you a bond-servant?

Since our minds were conformed to this world, we need to renew
them in such a way that what we believe is in accordance with
truth. Chapter 14 of Romans deals with how we should walk in
regard to nonmoral issues. Paul says, "The faith which you have,
have as your own conviction before God. Happy is he who does not
condemn himself in what he approves" (Romans 14:22).

However, we are to restrict our freedom if it causes a weaker
brother to stumble. We never have the right to violate another
person's conscience. Paul says, "I also do my best to maintain
always a blameless conscience both before God and before men"
(Acts 24:16). Be very cautious about going against your own
conscience once you are committed to Christ. The Holy Spirit does
work through our consciences as He seeks to renew our minds.

Thank You, Lord, that my mind and conscience can be renewed daily
through the power of Your Word.

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--
Brian Masinick, "The Mas", mailto:masinick@yahoo.com
Home page: www.geocities.com/masinick/

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