What does "clear conscience" mean in Hebrews 13:18, and how can we maintain it? Verse Snapshot “Pray for us; we are convinced that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” – Hebrews 13:18 What Scripture Means by “Conscience” • The inner faculty God implants that assesses our thoughts, motives, and actions (Romans 2:14-15) • Not infallible on its own; it must be shaped by God’s Word (Psalm 119:11; 2 Timothy 3:16-17) • Either “good/clear” (1 Timothy 1:5) or “seared” (1 Timothy 4:2) depending on obedience to truth What Makes a Conscience “Clear” • Cleansed by Christ’s blood: “How much more will the blood of Christ… cleanse our consciences from dead works to serve the living God” (Hebrews 9:14) • Free from unconfessed sin: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9) • Unburdened by unresolved wrongs toward others (Acts 24:16) • Confirmed by consistent, honorable living: “Maintain a good conscience, so that those who slander you… may be put to shame” (1 Peter 3:16) Why a Clear Conscience Matters • Assures interior peace and joy (Psalm 32:1-2) • Empowers bold prayer (1 John 3:21-22) • Protects against spiritual shipwreck (1 Timothy 1:19) • Witnesses credibly to unbelievers (Philippians 2:15) Habits That Maintain a Clear Conscience 1. Quick Confession • Keep short accounts with God (Proverbs 28:13) 2. Daily Scripture Intake • Let God’s standards recalibrate the conscience (James 1:22-25) 3. Spirit-Led Sensitivity • Follow promptings to obey or refrain (Galatians 5:16) 4. Honest Speech • “No lie was found in their mouths” (Revelation 14:5) 5. Integrity in Relationships • Seek reconciliation where wrongs exist (Matthew 5:23-24) 6. Sober Self-Examination • “Test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5) 7. Accountable Fellowship • “Confess your sins to one another” (James 5:16) Verses to Memorize and Meditate On • Acts 24:16 – “I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God and man.” • 1 Timothy 1:5 – “The goal of our instruction is love… from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith.” • 1 Peter 3:21 – “…an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” |
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