Convictions

We usually determine what is right or wrong according to our convictions. Many people do not have their own convictions. They are based on what others think. What our parents taught us. Maybe even what the Pastor thinks. God wants us to have our own convictions. Matthew 16:13-16. I am a Baptist by conviction, not any other reason.

Most Christians are settled with their beliefs on the major doctrines of scripture. Things that are black and white.

• Bible inspiration. 2 Timothy 3:16

• Virgin birth of Jesus. Matthew 1:23

• Death, burial and resurrection of Jesus. 1 Corinthians 15:1-4

• Salvation by grace through faith. Ephesians 2:8-9

• Heaven and Hell. John 3:18

But all of us at sometime in our life, still have trouble with the “grey” area matters.

Here are five tests by which we can strengthen our convictions in those areas.

I. The Test of Expediency. 1 Corinthians 6:12

1. Is this the best for me?

2. Does it help me as a Christian?

3. Will this slow me down? Hebrews 12:1

4. Do you have any doubts about doing it? Romans 14:23

II. The Test of Enslavement. 1 Corinthians 6:12

1. When we are saved, we are set free from the power of sin. Nothing is to control us or keep us from serving God. John 8:32-36, Romans 6:12-16

2. We should never let anything come between us and God. (No other God’s before Me.)

III. The Test of Edification. 1 Corinthians 10:23

1. Does it cause my brother to stumble? 1 Corinthians 8:9-13

2. If everybody knew about it, would it make them better Christians?

3. Would it lift me up in the sight of my brother or sister?

IV. The Test of Evangelism. 1 Corinthians 10:32-33

1. Will it cause others to be saved?

2. Will it hinder others from coming to Christ?

3. Will doing it hurt your testimony?

4. This one thing may be the only thing that keeps God from being able to use you to your fullest potential.

V. The Test of Exaltation. 1 Corinthians 10:31

1. Can you do it and bring glory to God?

2. Can you sign the name of Jesus to everything you say or do? Colossians 3:17

Notice the 5 words Paul used to test our convictions.

1. Expediency. 1 Corinthians 6:12

2. Enslavement. 1 Corinthians 6:12

3. Edify. 1 Corinthians 10:23

4. Evangelism. 1 Corinthians 10:32-33

5. Exalt. 1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:17

Romans 14:7-12. Everyone will give an account of himself to God