Grace and Conscience

By F. L. Lemley

[Page 125]

     The question is asked, "If I must show grace toward brethren with whom I disagree on certain issues, does this not mean I will have fellowship in their evil ways and thus condemn myself?" No! It is made clear in Romans 14 that two brethren may differ without either being evil, and both be received of God. The problem arises when one demands that the other abide by convictions other than his own. It is a difficult lesson to learn that, if I violate my conscience I am condemned but my brother may, in clear conscience do the very thing that would condemn me, and not be condemned.

     There are certain convictions (faith) which must be held as matters between oneself and God (Romans 14:22, 23). Such convictions are developed by human processes of reasoning and are not plain declarations of God's Word. All our issues fall in this category. All are derived from human deduction and inference. Therefore, all conclusions on our issues are human, and while binding on the conscience of the holder, are not to be bound on the brotherhood. We are not at liberty to bind our convictions upon our brethren.

     To apply this principle let us take the question of instrumental music. What has God said upon the question? Absolutely nothing! There is not one verse in the whole new testament scriptures on the subject. But some, through a long process of reasoning upon the command to sing (Ephesians 5:19) reach the conclusion that the instrument must not be used in worship. Others, equally spiritual and intelligent, start from the same scriptures, and reach the opposite conclusion. Each must abide by his conviction, right or wrong. But, is not the one who is wrong condemned? Not if the wrong one happens to be me. God's grace will cover my error on this point. Therefore, it will cover your error also. Let's face it. If God's grace does not cover the intellectual errors of sincere, obedient souls who are trying to obey, but who fall short of perfection, there is no hope for any of us!

     What is the solution to our problems? Recognize all of God's children as brethren. Allow each one to abide by his own conscience. Fraternize with one another and learn to treat one another as brethren rather than as pious pagans. Ignore partisan walls and avoid the party spirit. If we must separate let it be without schism!