Lent Midweek @ Cornerstone
February 26-April 1, 2020
Pursuing the Joy of a Clear Conscience
Two years earlier, Fred had given his life to Jesus Christ. He’d begun reading his Bible on a fairly regular basis and was slowly but surely learning how to pray. He’d joined a local church and volunteered to be on the welcome team. He’d just registered for an evangelism training class because he wanted to learn how to share the gospel with his unbelieving roommate.
It was clear: Christ had changed Fred’s life.
But something had begun to trouble Fred. “Nate, this may sound weird, but in some ways, becoming a Christian has made life harder not easier.”
“How do you mean, Fred?”
Fred gave a quizzical look and continued, “Well, I’m noticing that some of the things I used to think nothing about are all the sudden bothering me.”
“Can you give me an example?” I inquired.
“Yeah, but I’m kind-of embarrassed to confess this. Before I was a Christian, I never thought twice about taking a second look at a pretty girl that walks by. I never felt bad about having a bit too much to drink at the pub or railing on a coworker that got under my skin. I guess I’m finding myself feeling increasingly guilty about certain things I think, say and do…”
Fred collected his thoughts and began again, “I’ve shared this with a few of my close Christian friends, but it hasn’t helped, at least not yet. One friend kind of blew off my concerns saying I was being overly sensitive. He reminded me that Jesus had died for my sins and urged me to stop feeling guilty all the time. The other friend said he battles with the same thing at times, but it usually passes as long as he doesn’t focus on it. He concluded by saying he’ll pray for me.”
Fred sighed with resignation, “Maybe this is what it feels like to be a Christian…”
Beginning on Wednesday, February 26 at 6:15pm in the chapel, the pastoral staff will take six weeks to explore the Bible’s teaching on the critical but oft neglected subject of the conscience. In this study, key topics related to the nature and purpose of conscience will be explored and answered biblically. Those who attend will learn…
· What the conscience is and why it matters?
· Is my conscience a faithful guide for life?
· How can I get rid of a guilty conscience?
· Is it possible to maintain a clear conscience?
· Can a weak conscience be trained and mature?
· How should I respond when others disagree with my conscience?
So, go ahead and mark out the time on your calendars. Consider inviting a close friend or neighbor to join you. This series promises to be an important opportunity to grow in the joy of living with a clear conscience before the Lord. I can’t wait to see YOU on Wednesday nights during Lent!