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Christian talk radio with Gary Hamrick

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Broadcast Episode

February 10

A Healthy Conscience: Paul's Defense and the Role of Conscience in Spiritual Life

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Broadcast Episode Summary

A Healthy Conscience is essential for navigating moral challenges and living in alignment with God’s truth. This article provides insights into the nature of conscience and its significance in the life of a believer.

  • Understand that a healthy conscience serves as a moral compass, guiding decisions based on right and wrong.
  • Recognize the importance of aligning one’s conscience with biblical principles for a fulfilling life.
  • Acknowledge that both secular and biblical views of conscience emphasize its role in distinguishing between good and evil.
  • Explore the impact of a clear conscience on personal confidence and resilience in the face of adversity.
  • Seek to deepen the relationship with God to cultivate and inform a healthy conscience.

A Healthy Conscience: Understanding Its Importance

This is Cornerstone Connection, the radio ministry of Pastor Gary Hambrek from Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, Virginia. In today’s message, Pastor Gary dives deep into the topic of a healthy conscience, illustrating its significance through the teachings found in the book of Acts. Real love is calling, and the truth has the power to open up your eyes.

Paul stands boldly before the Sanhedrin, confidently beginning his defense by stating, “I have a good conscience before God.” This declaration is powerful. It raises important questions about the nature of conscience itself. What exactly does the term “conscience” mean? Where does it stem from? How does it operate, and can it be trusted? Today, Pastor Gary explores these mysteries through God’s word.

The Journey of Paul

Throughout the first century, the apostle Paul traveled over 10,000 miles on three missionary journeys, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. Despite warnings of tribulation and hardship, he pressed on, knowing that his calling was to spread the gospel, even to those who opposed him.

When Paul arrived in Jerusalem, he faced severe opposition from those who did not accept Jesus as the Messiah. The same animosity that led to Jesus’ crucifixion was now directed at Paul. His message of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ threatened the traditional beliefs held by many Jews, who believed that righteousness came by obeying the law. For them, Paul appeared as a traitor.

In Acts 20:24, Paul acknowledges the hardships of his calling, saying, “But none of these things move me.” His confidence stemmed from his clear conscience before God, a key aspect of a healthy conscience.

Understanding Conscience

So, what is a conscience? Both secular and biblical views describe it as a moral compass, an internal mechanism that distinguishes right from wrong. In secular interpretations, it often appears as a struggle between good and evil influences, much like the classic depiction of a devil and angel on one’s shoulders.

In psychology, the conscience is defined as the moral dimension of human consciousness. Psychologists debate how an individual’s moral code forms—whether it’s shaped by external influences or an innate understanding of right and wrong. This aligns closely with the biblical view that we are born with a sense of morality, though it can be influenced by our experiences.

The Impact of a Healthy Conscience

A healthy conscience is crucial for living a fulfilling life aligned with God’s truth. When one’s conscience is informed by biblical principles, it acts as a guide, offering blessings and clarity. Conversely, an unhealthy conscience can lead to confusion and moral ambiguity.

Pastor Gary emphasizes that the Bible mentions the word “conscience” 29 times in the New Testament. The Greek term for conscience, “sunna-dasis,” combines the ideas of knowing oneself and knowing God. This co-knowledge allows individuals to navigate life’s moral challenges effectively.

  • Recognize the role of conscience in decision-making.
  • Understand the importance of aligning conscience with God’s truth.
  • Explore how a healthy conscience can lead to a more fulfilling life.
  • Acknowledge the consequences of ignoring one’s conscience.

As Pastor Gary teaches, the key to maintaining a healthy conscience lies in the relationship one has with God and the truth of His word. When you seek to align your conscience with God’s standards, it can become one of the greatest blessings in your life.

At the end of the message, Pastor Gary will share how to access today’s broadcast of Cornerstone Connection. Subscribe to the podcast or get in touch with us to learn more about cultivating a healthy conscience in your life.

Conclusion

A Healthy Conscience plays a vital role in guiding individuals through moral decisions and challenges. By understanding the nature of conscience and aligning it with God’s truth, one can experience the blessings that come with a clear conscience. As illustrated through Paul’s unwavering confidence before the Sanhedrin, a healthy conscience empowers believers to stand firm against adversity. To further explore this topic and access today’s broadcast of Cornerstone Connection, consider subscribing to the podcast or reaching out for more information. How might a healthy conscience transform your life and decisions?

Originally published as “A Healthy Conscience: Paul’s Defense and the Role of Conscience in Spiritual Life” from Cornerstone Connection.

About Cornerstone Connection

Cornerstone Connection is the radio ministry of Gary Hamrick, pastor of Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, VA. It is Pastor Gary’s desire to teach God’s Word in a practical, relevant way that reaches listeners with the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ.

Cornerstone Connection is the radio ministry of Gary Hamrick, pastor of Cornerstone Chapel in Leesburg, VA. It is Pastor Gary’s desire to teach God’s Word in a practical, relevant way that reaches listeners with the life-changing good news of Jesus Christ.

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