The Work of Conviction

The difference between condemnation and conviction is drastic, and it is essential to understand the distinction between the two. Believers should never live in condemnation, but the Holy Spirit within us allows us to experience godly conviction.

Like we said in the previous blog, condemnation is the voice that says,  “my life is worthy of judgment”. Before being in Christ, we were God’s enemies and dead in our trespasses. (Romans 5:10, Ephesians 2:1) But now, those who are in Christ, “have been justified through faith” and, “have peace with God…” (Romans 5:1)

It’s important to know that conviction functions differently for the believer and non-believer. For the non-believer, conviction reveals sinfulness, guilt, brings fear of God’s righteous judgement and can result in them turning to the Lord. Whereas, conviction in the believer brings an awareness of righteousness. If the believer stumbles into sin, Holy Spirit will remind them that they are the beloved of the Lord, the righteousness of Christ and what they did is less than what God desires. This truth will cause the believer to change their mind and actions, confess their sin, embrace Christ’s righteousness and move forward in fellowship with God.

There are many ways in which the Holy Spirit brings conviction. Throughout the New Testament,

Holy Spirit convicts through,

Preaching (Acts 2:37, Acts 16:14)

Exercising the spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 14:24-25)

Again, the New Testament also reveals the Holy Spirit does a powerful work of conviction specifically in the lives of believers by,

Bringing illumination (Ephesians 1:17-18, 1 Corinthians 2:14-16)

Giving assurance about their new relationship with God (Romans 8:15-16, Galatians 4:6)

Reminding believers of the righteousness of God. (John 16:8-11)

We pray this will be helpful as you stand on guard against the enemies tricks to condemn you. May you also be strengthened to be more aware of when the Holy Spirit is bringing conviction. By God’s grace, may you be filled with the ability to discern between the two.