Conviction

Conviction

Titus 1:7-9 For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.

One of the things a pastor, a bishop, must do is convict people by using sound doctrine, but as a pastor I’ve learned that most people don’t like being convicted. They bristle in anger when a pastor uses sound doctrine to confront them over some sin or error in their life. They often take it as a personal attack, and get defensive, sometimes even hostile, but that isn’t the way to respond.

Paul tells us, “All Scripture is God breathed and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16). Proverbs tells us that when we correct a scoffer he’ll hate us, but if we correct a wise person, he’ll love us. So, a pastor must speak the truth in love. Proverbs also tells us a righteous man who won’t address sin when he sees it is like a muddied stream. In other words, a pastor who refuses to convict people by using sound doctrine only muddies the water.

The book of Hebrews says, “My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” So, don’t be discouraged or angry when you are convicted by a pastor who uses sound doctrine. It proves the Lord loves you, and so does the pastor He sends to convict you.

Have a God Filled Week,
Brother Donnie