Seeing that all of human nature has been affected by sin, both a person’s perception of the standard of action required and the function of the conscience itself (as a constituent part of human nature) are also affected by sin. For this reason conscience can never be accorded the position of ultimate judge of one’s behavior. It is possible that the conscience may excuse one for that which God will not excuse, and conversely it is equally possible that conscience may condemn a person for that which God allows. The final judgment therefore belongs only to God (cf. 1 Cor. 4:2-5). Nevertheless, to reject the voice of conscience is to court spiritual disaster (cf. 1 Tim. 1:19). We cannot reject the voice of conscience with impunity, but we can modify the highest standard to which it relates by gaining for ourselves a greater understanding of the truth.
— Colin Kruse, Neutestamentler und Theologe
Topics: Freedom & Truth, Ethical Questions, Wisdom & Understanding
Occasions: For Reflection
The Father’s love does not force itself on the beloved.
Henri Nouwen
Martin Luther King Jr.
In essential unity; in nonessentials liberty; in all this charity.
Rupertus Meldenius
Tim Keller
William Temple
To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was yourself.
Diane H. Moody
Don't allow anybody to make you feel that you're nobody.
Martin Luther King Jr.
Anxiety is the dizziness of freedom.
Søren Kierkegaard