InstaStudy

Conscience, Flesh, Law, and Grace

An exploration of the human conscience, the weakness of the flesh, and the transition from the Old Testament Law to the New Testament Covenant of Grace.

1. The Nature and Function of the Human Conscience

1.1 Conscience as Moral Compass

Verses: Romans 2:15; 1 Timothy 4:2; Hebrews 9:14
  • The conscience as an internal witness, bearing testimony to right and wrong.
  • The conscience can be defiled, seared, or purified through our actions and beliefs.

1.2 Maintaining a Clear Conscience

Verses: Acts 24:16; 1 Timothy 1:5; 1 Peter 3:16
  • A good conscience is essential for maintaining fellowship with God.
  • We must strive to keep our conscience clear before God and man.

2. The Weakness of the Flesh: A Biblical Perspective

2.1 Understanding the Flesh

Verses: Matthew 26:41; Romans 7:18; Galatians 5:17
  • The flesh refers to our natural, unspiritual inclinations and desires.
  • The flesh is inherently weak and susceptible to sin.

2.2 The Battle Within

Verses: Romans 8:5-8; Galatians 5:16-17
  • The struggle between the spirit and the flesh is a constant battle for believers.
  • Yielding to the flesh leads to sin and separation from God.

2.3 Overcoming the Flesh

Verses: Galatians 5:24; Romans 8:13
  • Through the power of the Spirit, we can overcome the desires of the flesh.
  • Crucifying the flesh means denying its sinful impulses and living in obedience to God.

3. The Law's Limitations and the Need for Grace

3.1 The Law's Purpose

Verses: Romans 3:20; Romans 7:7; Galatians 3:24
  • The Law revealed sin but could not provide the power to overcome it.
  • The Law served as a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ.

3.2 The Law's Demands

Verses: Galatians 3:10; James 2:10
  • The Law demanded perfect obedience, which no one could achieve.
  • The Law condemned those who failed to keep it perfectly.

3.3 The Superiority of Grace

Verses: Hebrews 8:6; Romans 5:20-21; John 1:17
  • The New Covenant is established on better promises, offering forgiveness and the power to live righteously.
  • Grace, through faith in Jesus Christ, provides what the Law could not.

4. The New Covenant: Faith, Grace, and the Spirit

4.1 Salvation by Faith

Verses: Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 3:22; Hebrews 11:1
  • Salvation is received through faith in the atoning work of Jesus Christ.
  • Faith is not merely intellectual assent but a living trust in God.

4.2 The Gift of Grace

Verses: Titus 2:11-12; 2 Corinthians 9:8
  • Grace is God's unmerited favor, freely given to those who believe.
  • Grace empowers us to live a life pleasing to God.

4.3 The Role of the Spirit

Verses: Romans 8:4; Galatians 5:16; John 16:13
  • The Holy Spirit indwells believers, empowering them to overcome the flesh.
  • The Spirit guides us into truth and enables us to live according to God's will.

5. Living in the Spirit: Practical Application

5.1 Cultivating Spiritual Disciplines

Verses: Luke 9:23; Ephesians 6:18; 2 Timothy 3:16-17
  • Daily surrender to the Spirit is essential for overcoming the flesh.
  • Prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers strengthen our spiritual walk.

5.2 Resisting Temptation

Verses: James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:8-9; Hebrews 3:13
  • We must be vigilant against temptation and resist the devil's schemes.
  • Accountability and support from fellow believers can help us stay on the right path.