They are convinced of their need for a Saviour.
The sermon opened with the reading of John 16:8, “And when
he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of
judgment.” The preacher put it this way, "Unless you have been convinced of your
sinful state, your feeble attempts at self-righteousness, and your inadequate reasoning,
you are not convinced that Christ is all in all."
I thought back to the time I came to Christ, and I had to
agree. I had gone to church for years,
served, prayed, and done all the things I was taught, but I still had doubts in
my heart and lacked assurance. I believed
my sin wasn’t any worse than anyone else; I was doing all I could be look like
a Christian and full of excuses and self-reasoning that kept me from
seeing my personal need.
Then, when the eyes of my heart looked into the loving eyes
of my Saviour, my sinfulness was exposed, my works of righteousness faded away,
and my will could no longer resist. In humble confession, I repented and gave
my life to Christ. I was convinced. I became a Christian. How about you?
They are convinced of the Authority of the Book.
And a beautiful book it is! The Bible is the Christian’s guide,
console, teacher, and corrector. Through the Spirit's working, it touches
the deepest part of the heart, mind, and soul. It not only contains the word of
God but is the Word of God alive in our heart.
It keeps the Christian from sin. “Thy word have I hidden in
mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:11
It holds infinite wisdom. “For the Lord giveth wisdom; out
of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs 2:6
It has the final authority. “There is no wisdom, nor understanding,
nor counsel against the Lord.” Proverbs 21:30
It will be completed. “Till heaven and earth pass, one jot
or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.”
Matthew 5:18
And it will endure forever. “The grass withereth, the flower
fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand for ever.” Isaiah 40:8
Those convinced about the authority and beauty of the Book
have confidence and perspective that strengthens and directs their life. How important
is the Bible to your life?
They are convinced of Commandments.
Commandments might sound like a harsh word, but for the
Christian, they hold no anguish. Commandments boil down to “Thou shalt love the
Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and thy mind…and love thy
neighbour as thyself.” Matthew 22:37,39
Commandments are love in action. The Christian is convinced
that obedience is key to growth and happiness. God isn’t a harsh taskmaster.
His commandments are not grievous; we are told in 1 John 5:3. But they are
there for our benefit, our help, and our relationship. They give us structure, guidance,
and a way to lay up treasure in heaven.
When we are convinced God’s way is best, we find happiness
and purpose the world cannot give. How are you doing with obedience?
They are convinced on Commission.
A Christian is also convinced that this gift of salvation,
this precious Book, and the directives therein are not to be hoarded. They are to be shared, lived out so others
can see The Light, and blazed abroad. Jesus himself said, “Go ye into all the
world and preach the gospel.” Mark 16:15
Friend, I am convinced.
Are you?
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