Court In Session!

Under the rule of the Roman Empire, if one was accused of a crime they were brought before a tribunal. A tribune was a Roman official whose function was that of protecting citizens from arbitrary actions. Members of the tribunal were TRAINED in the law and through listening to witnesses and cross examination would either commend or condemn the one brought before them. Today we have courts and judges where people are brought to stand trial. Sometimes court schedules get so full the trial has to be put off for a while. However, there is a court that is always in session; one that if properly TRAINED may eliminate the fear of coming before the courts of the land.

Someone has said, “The tribunal of conscience exists independent of edicts and decrees.” [source: sentence sermons] The conscience is only a good guide when it is TRAINED in accordance with the right standards and values. Our conscience needs to be based upon the Will and Word of God. Such a well TRAINED CONSCIENCE can keep our actions on track even when there is no other authority present.

As Paul talked about obedience of Jews and Gentiles, he spoke of those who “by nature” did what the law required. ( Romans 2:14) They had developed a consciousness regarding right and wrong that did not necessitate God’s law being right in front of them.

Describing what went on within, Paul wrote…
“(15) They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while THEIR CONSCIENCE ALSO BEARS WITNESS, and THEIR CONFLICTING THOUGHTS ACCUSE OR EVEN EXCUSE THEM (16) on that day when, according to my gospel, God judges the secrets of men by Christ Jesus.” ( Romans 2:15-16 ESV)

The New Living Translation reads…
“(15) They demonstrate that God’s law is written within them, for THEIR OWN CONSCIENCES EITHER ACCUSE THEM OR TELL THEM THEY ARE DOING WHAT IS RIGHT. (16) The day will surely come when God, by Jesus Christ, will judge everyone’s secret life. This is my message.” [NLT, © 1997, Tyndale House]

As we step into each day, may we do so with the light on in that court within. Continually taking to heart the Word of God, let us allow a God TRAINED CONSCIENCE to keep our life on course. With that court always in session, when it begins to accuse, let us turn back to the right. When it defends our actions as right, let us remain firm in standing for that which is holy and righteous in the eyes of God. Living in this manner before God will take the fear out of the judgment to come.

Have a great day GUIDED BY GOD’S TRIBUNE OF TRUTH WITHIN!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Conscience