And herein do I exercise myself
William MacDonald emphasizes the importance of maintaining a conscience void of offense toward God and men by exercising oneself in ethical integrity amidst societal and professional temptations.
In this sermon, William MacDonald addresses the ethical challenges Christians face in a corrupt society and the importance of maintaining a clear conscience before God and others. He explores practical examples from various professions and daily life, urging believers to exercise themselves in integrity. MacDonald highlights the biblical standard found in Acts 24:16 as the guiding principle for ethical decision-making.
Text
“And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.” (Acts 24:16)
In a society like ours,, and with a corrupt old nature like ours, we are constantly faced with problems of ethics that test the sincerity of our commitment to Christian principles.
The student, for instance, is tempted to cheat on his exams. If all diplomas earned dishonestly were returned, the schools and colleges would scarcely contain them.
The taxpayer is forever tempted to understate his income, overstate his expenses or withhold some pertinent information altogether.
The name of the game in business, politics and law is payola. Bribes are used to pervert justice. Gifts change hands to get orders. Kickbacks keep business coming. Payoffs appease local inspectors who often make extreme and sometimes ridiculous demands.
Almost every profession has its own pressures to be dishonest. The Christian doctor is called on to sign his name to insurance claims that are patently false. The lawyer must decide whether to defend a criminal whom he knows to be guilty, or to handle a divorce case where both parties are Christians. The used car dealer fights a battle within whether to adjust the odometer to show a lower mileage. The laborer faces the decision, in joining a union, of committing himself to violence in the event of a strike. Should a Christian flight attendant serve liquor (or, choosing that job, does she have any choice)? Should a Christian athlete play on the Lord’s Day? Should a Christian grocer sell cigarettes, which are known to produce cancer?
Is it worse for a Christian architect to design a nightclub or a modernistic, liberal church building? Should a Christian organization accept gifts from a brewery? Or from a Christian who is living in sin? Should a buyer accept a crate of oranges or a box of jams and jellies from one of his suppliers at Christmas time?
The best deciding rule is the one in our text—“to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.”
Sermon Outline
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I
- The challenge of ethical dilemmas in modern society
- Examples of temptations faced by students, taxpayers, and professionals
- The pervasive nature of dishonesty in various fields
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II
- Specific ethical conflicts for Christians in different professions
- The struggle between worldly pressures and Christian principles
- Questions about appropriate Christian conduct in daily decisions
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III
- The biblical standard for ethical living
- The importance of a conscience void of offense toward God and men
- Applying the scriptural rule to everyday moral decisions
Key Quotes
“And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.” — William MacDonald
“In a society like ours, and with a corrupt old nature like ours, we are constantly faced with problems of ethics that test the sincerity of our commitment to Christian principles.” — William MacDonald
“The best deciding rule is the one in our text—'to have always a conscience void of offense toward God, and toward men.'” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Regularly examine your conscience to ensure your actions align with God's standards.
- Resist societal pressures that encourage dishonesty by committing to biblical principles.
- Make ethical decisions in daily life that honor both God and your neighbors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to have a conscience void of offense?
It means living in such a way that neither God nor people can justly accuse you of wrongdoing, maintaining integrity in all actions.
How can Christians face ethical challenges in their professions?
By relying on biblical principles and exercising their conscience to make decisions that honor God and respect others.
Is it realistic to avoid all ethical compromises in today's society?
While difficult, the sermon encourages believers to strive for integrity by consciously choosing what pleases God over worldly gain.
What role does the conscience play in Christian ethics?
The conscience acts as an internal guide that helps believers discern right from wrong according to God's standards.
Can Christians accept gifts from questionable sources?
The sermon suggests careful consideration to ensure that accepting gifts does not compromise one's conscience or witness.