OUTLINE:
Truth is not a subjective thing, like many so-called “Christians” treat it today.
The “Feeling” Christians
These Christians might be sincere, going by their conscience, but if their conscience isn’t filled with Truth from the Word, then what do they have to stand on when judging right and wrong???
“Feelings” vs. Truth
People “feel” a lot of things are “right,” even as it pertains to the things of God. However, many so-called “Christians” today have feelings void of Biblical training (e.g. Eph 4:11-12; Ro 10:17). In the absence of divine knowledge, their conscience is a slave to false data (e.g., “the doctrines of demons” – 1Ti 4:1).
“Feelings” vs. Truth
One of the easiest ways to discern if a conscience has been duped is the presence of “feelings” in the absence of Biblical knowledge/permission.
READ YOUR BIBLE!!!
If you don’t do this singular thing, you have stymied your spiritual growth in unimaginable ways (ref: Eph 3:20)!
Peace, freedom, and no doubts or anxiety… these are divine gifts of God granted to those who obey His Word. Is there anything more valuable???
Growing Up
How do you know when you’re really beginning to “grow up” spiritually? 1Co 16:14Let all that you do be done in love. <— It’s really that simple. This brings glory to God every time.
“renewed in the spirit of your mind”
A true believer in Christ has been given supernatural abilities. A new mind means a new ability to digest “spiritually appraised” things (1Co 2:14). Wisdom is a function of knowledge, as is the conscience (con = with + science = knowledge).
Eph 5:8b, 10
…walk as children of Light…trying to learn [pursue the Word of Truth] what is pleasing to the Lord.
Arguably the greatest deception in Christendom is the lie that a person can grow up spiritually in the absence of a daily diet of the Word of Truth.
Heb 13:21
equip you [ala Eph 4:11-12]in every good thing to do His will, working in us that which is pleasing in His sight.
The “Feeling” Christians
Why do they care so little about eternal truths that they just accept the doctrines taught in their churches on a Sunday and not check up on them at all??? We’re talking about ETERNAL LIFE, here!
They have been deceived by their sin natures.
Satan is VERY HAPPY with these types of watered-down churches… and very happy when believers don’t read their Bibles and come to their own convictions! Ac 17:10-12
Satan works hand in hand with your sinful nature, which is lazy and wants to simply accept what feels good.
Where Our Treasure Is…
Natural man values physical things (e.g., life) over eternal (e.g., salvation). A believer in Christ values eternal life and the Kingdom of God over all else. (1Ki 3:5-14; 1Jn 2:15-17)
Mt 6:33
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” <– Do NOT be deceived (like so many others) into thinking that blessings come ANY other way! LEARN THE WORD FOR YOURSELF!
Not only does Solomon receive knowledge regarding spiritual leadership, but God then assures him of physical prosperity too. (the thing that natural man puts first, God adds as a blessing)
A Good Conscience
Only submission to the Word of God and the Holy Spirit can educate us rightly so that we have good information to judge from.
Pastor Collins:
Your spiritual life DEPENDS upon you NOT “borrowing” anyone else’s convictions!!!
Conscience
If you want to enjoy the blessings of possessing your OWN convictions borne of a good conscience, you MUST begin by acquiring the Word of Truth!