Christian Theology - Media Sabda Org

against it, lose it, and perish everlastingly; not through any defect in the
gift, but through the abuse of it.
It is dangerous to trifle with conscience, even when erroneous; it
should be borne with and instructed; it must be won over, not taken by
storm. Its feelings should be respected, because they ever refer to God,
and have their foundation in his fear. He who sins against his conscience,
in things which every one else knows to be indifferent, will soon do it in
those things in which his salvation is most intimately concerned. It is a
great blessing to have a well informed conscience; it is a blessing to have
a tender conscience; and even a sore conscience is infinitely better than
none.
Persons of an over tender and scrupulous conscience may be very
troublesome in a Christian society; but as this excessive scrupulosity
comes from want of more light, more experience; or more judgment, we
should bear with them. Though such should often run into ridiculous
extremes, yet we must take care that we do not attempt to cure them
either with ridicule or wrath. Extremes generally beget extremes; and
such persons require the most judicious treatment, else they will soon be
stumbled and turned out of the way. We should be very careful lest, in
using what is called Christian liberty, we occasion their fall; and for our
own sake we must take heed that we do not denominate sinful
indulgences "Christian liberties."
"We are verily guilty." How finely are the office and influence of
conscience exemplified in these words (of Joseph's brethren!) It was
about twenty-two years since they had sold their brother, and probably
their conscience had been lulled asleep to the present hour. God combines
and brings about those favourable circumstances which produce attention
and reflection, and give weight to the expostulations of conscience. How
necessary to hear its voice in time! for here it may be the instrument of
salvation; but if not heard in this world, it must be heard in the next; and
there, in association with the unquenchable fire, it will be the never dying
worm. Reader, has not thy sin as yet found thee out? Pray to God to take