It is possible to have a good conscience and yet not do the right thing. The Apostle Paul was mistaken but did it out of a good conscience. Paul had been acutely aware of God and His presence throughout his life. Paul’s approach to his relationship with God had always been with a deep reverence and respect.

Paul regards himself as having been, before his conversion, a violent and hostile man but yet with a good conscience (See also 1 Timothy 1:13; Acts 26:9). These people are quite willing to listen to their consciences but still make wrong choices due to ignorance or prejudice (See 1 Peter 1:14,15). Paul was this kind of person, having good conscience but still a sinner in need of God’s grace.

When Paul came to the correct understanding that Jesus as the Son of God and Messiah he continued to follow his good conscience. When told what he must do to wash away his sins, he did it (See Acts 22:16). While the blood of Christ did not erase Paul’s memory of his past sins, God has chosen not to remember them any longer (See Hebrews 8:12). When Paul obeyed the gospel he appealed to God for a conscience that would remain clear, and, having been forgiven by God, and having done everything he knew to do, he could stand before God and say, “I ask for Your grace and I have placed my trust in You and it is enough.” (See 1 Peter 3:20-21).

A good conscience is only a right conscience if it is living for God. We need to focus first on living with God’s approval. If God is for us then who can be against us? See Romans 8:31; 2 Timothy 4:16-18. There is human desires that compete against God’s desire. A good conscience is not enough to get you into Heaven but it can be a step in the right direction! Too many people don’t take any more steps!

“You should not believe your conscience and your feelings more than the word which the Lord who receives sinners preaches to you.” – Martin Luther

Categories: Acts