The voice of conscience and sensitivity to the reactions of others are important elements of moral direction (1 Timothy 1:5). But personal consciences vary. One conscience permits almost anything, while another conscience generates devastating amounts of shame and guilt (1 Corinthians 8:7 ; Titus 1:15). Going by “how other people feel” also has limitations (1 Corinthians 4:3-5). The anger of other people doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ve done something wrong. A child who throws a tantrum or an adult who tries to get his way through emotional manipulation are using the same strategy. Paying too much attention to other people’s reactions is as likely to confuse us as it is to help us.
So while conscience and the reactions of other people are helpful, they are insufficient moral indicators. Relying on them to guide moral choices is like using our sense of touch to determine the extent of a child’s fever. When a child is sick, a more accurate measurement is in order. Our spiritual growth and the health of our soul are also worthy of a more accurate gauge than subjective human feelings.
The Bible offers to guide us through the subjective considerations of conscience and social opinion. Its appeal is cross-cultural. Its claims to authority are strongly supported by historical evidence. Its counsel has stood the test of time. It can be trusted.
All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that everyone who belongs to God may be proficient, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Conscience and sensitivity both need biblical instruction.
