Conviction

1
Conviction

• Acts 222-36

2
Introduction

• Firm convictions are almost extinct
• We live in an age of relativity
• Having conviction is viewed as arrogance
• Even the church has been affected
• Preachers are toning down what is said
• Elders are yielding on significant issues

3
Definition

• Notice these definitions
• State of being convinced, a fixed belief.
  (Random House Dictionary)
• The word assuredly comes from the Greek word
  asphalos meaning freedom from fear of
  contradiction. (Vines Expository Dictionary)
• Notice what took place for those who knew for
  certain (assuredly, KJV)
  (Acts 242, 46 819-24, 36 1625, 30)

4
Definition

• Conviction and opinion not the same
• Opinion falls short of conviction
• We must prove what the Lords will is
  (Ephesians 510 1 Peter 411)
• Conviction is not being close-minded
• Paul was convicted (Acts 231 269)
• Keep an open mind (Acts 1710, 11)

5
Conviction In Moral Matters

• Conviction demands action
• We must not practice evil (Ephesians 511)
• Speak out against the evil of others
• Conviction regarding sexual purity
• We live in an age of promiscuity, virginity said
  to be old-fashioned, marital fidelity ridiculed
• We must stand up and be counted
  (1 Corinthians 618 Hebrews 134)

6
Conviction In Moral Matters

• Conviction regarding speaking truth
• We are told lying is right at times
• Where is our conviction? (Colossians 39)
• Conviction regarding purity of speech
• Profanity abounds
• Euphemisms (Ephesians 429 54)
• Conviction regarding modesty
• Little is left to the imagination
• Must dress modestly (1 Timothy 28, 9)

7
Conviction In Doctrinal Matters

• Some are growing weaker in doctrine
• Dont offend anyone (Jeremiah 531)
• Preach what is wanted (2 Timothy 41-5)
• Doctrine is important
• Must be sound (1 Timothy 110 416 Titus 21)
• Limits to fellowship (2 John 9-11)
• Contend for the faith
• Just preach love, no debating
• Apostles debated like Jesus (Acts 152, 7)

8
Conclusion

• How much conviction must I have?
• Die for my beliefs? (Revelation 210)
• Give up my family? (Matthew 1034-39)
• Risk being a troublemaker? (Acts 176)
• Do you have conviction?
• Are you playing church?
• Are you even a Christian?