Defining a “Good” Conscience
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Text:1 Peter 3:13-16 and Hebrews 13:18
Introduction: What do we know about the conscience? Everyone has one. It acts as a judge and witness of our conduct. Our words and deeds impact the conscience in other people. The conscience is labeled good, evil, blameless, or defiled. The purpose of this lesson is to define a good conscience and describe what it looks like in practice.
Point 1: Defining the Human Conscience
- The conscience is the faculty of self evaluation
- Conscience- (4893) “Suneidesis”
- Strong’s- Moral consciousness, Coperception
- Thayer’s- The soul as distinguishing between what is morally good or evil. Prompting what is good and rejecting evil. Commending good, condemning evil.
- Vine’s- Two words: “Sun”- union, with, together “Eido”- To see, Know, be aware
A co-knowledge (with Oneself)The witness borne to ones conduct by conscience, the faculty by which we apprehend the will of God as that which is designed to govern our lives.
Point 2: Defining the “Good” Conscience
- The good conscience evaluates & chooses right action
- 1 Peter 3:13-16 Good“Agathos”Conscience
“Agathos” describes being good in constitution or character. To be intentional in good deeds to render a benefit or blessing to another.
An agathos conscience is one that consistently and intentionally chooses good behavior that is guided by a strong constitution.
- Hebrews 12:18 Good“Kalos” Conscience
“Kalos” describes actions that are virtuous and honorable-worthy of esteem both by God and men.
A kalos conscience consistently evaluates and judges our behavior as being noble, honorable, and worthy of respect before both God and people.
Practical Applications:
What can we conclude about the conscience based on what we know from this morning’s lesson introduction?
Based on what you learned from this morning, why is a good conscience critically important to the Christian?
What can a Christian do to strengthen their faculty of a good conscience?
List the possible ways an evil conscience would destroy a Christian’s life .
Points for Prayer:
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________
- _____________________________________________