Convicted of Sin, Righteousness, and Judgment

Scripture: John 16:8 (KJV)

“And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.”

Personal Reflection

Before the sinner embraces Christ, the Holy Spirit exposes why he needs Christ. Jesus described this work as conviction concerning sin, righteousness, and judgment.

The Holy Spirit exposes unbelief as rebellion against Christ. He reveals that sinners possess no righteousness sufficient to stand before God and points them toward Christ's perfect righteousness. Finally, He warns of certain judgment, reminding sinners that Satan is already condemned and that those who remain in unbelief face God's righteous judgment.

This is why genuine gospel preaching cannot avoid uncomfortable subjects. Man's depravity must be preached. God's holiness must be proclaimed. Judgment must be declared. Christ's blood redemption must be exalted.

We cannot convict anyone. That is the Spirit's work. Our responsibility is to proclaim faithfully the Word He has given.

This should free us from attempting to manipulate people emotionally. We do not need theatrical methods to produce conversions. Give sinners the truth and pray that the Spirit will carry that truth from the ear to the conscience.

Conviction itself is an act of mercy. It is far better for a sinner to discover his guilt now, while Christ is freely offered in the gospel, than to discover it before the judgment seat when mercy is no longer offered.

When God wounds the conscience, He does so that the sinner might flee to the One whose wounds provide salvation.

Contemplation

Do I welcome biblical conviction, or do I resist the Spirit when God's Word exposes my sin?

Puritan Quote

Thomas Watson wrote:

“Before Christ's balm can be applied, the heart must be wounded.”

Prayer

Holy Spirit, search me through Your Word. Expose every sin I excuse and every place where I depend upon my own righteousness. Keep my conscience tender and continually point me to Christ. Amen.

Application

Read Psalm 139:23–24 and sincerely invite God to expose any sin requiring confession and repentance.