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 Conscience
reveals what each man believes "ought" to be (Acts
23:1; 24:16; 26:9-11). It is indicative of his inward feeling of
moral right, of the noble ideal for which he feels he should
strive. It is his prod toward his conception of moral heights,
and his brakes against doing what he believes is wrong.
Conscience is not the ultimate standard of truth, for that must
come from God via revelation; but conscience toward God tells
the individual's attitude toward God. That is why man must
do what he truly believes God wants him to do (Rom. 14).
While
one is trying to do what he believes God wants him to do (1) he
may have an erroneous concept of what God desires (that was the
case of Saul, in persecuting Christians), or, (2) he may,
through weakness of the flesh, act contrary to his good
intentions (Rom. 7:22-f). In this case he is made miserable by
his conscience — is humbled before God, and appreciative of
forgiveness in Christ. We are all imperfect creatures, and
should, at times, feel these pangs.
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But
what of those who take part in, condone and support that which
is contrary to God's word, or without any divine authority? They
may know no better, and be acting in good conscience before God.
In this case, further information from God's word is most
welcomed. Because they truly want to do His will, they gladly
open their Bible, investigate, and change their conduct to fit
the evidence. In this way they maintain a good conscience before
God (1 Pet. 3:21).
Sadly,
however, we must acknowledge that there are those who have no
such noble character (Acts 17:11). They are angered if their
practice is questioned. They love the praise of men more than
the praise of God (Jn. 12:42-43). If their conscience toward God
continues to function they lead a miserable life, fighting with
themselves, overwhelmed with feelings of guilt. Undesirable —
yes, but there is yet hope while the battle rages. How terribly
sad to see some whose conscience is seared (1 Tim. 4:2), and who
can reject God without a qualm.
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