Some people claim a religious persuasion because it is the religion of their parents. When questioned, they can't give a reason for their beliefs. Without knowing why they follow a particular path, they can easily lose their way and be led away from God.
We were given a "road map" of sorts by Jesus, and following this leads us to eternal life in heaven. Satan would be happy to have us listen to those who would turn us away from this path.
This passage mentions "a good conscience." How do we develop a good conscience?
First and foremost we need to listen to the voice of Jesus in the Gospels. We need to look at the commandments and read the letters to the early Christians that help to provide guideposts along the road.
The early Christians were persecuted for their beliefs. They were also ridiculed for their joy and their desire to do good. You would think that goodness would bring praise and not ridicule, but it really is no different today.
Those who work for the poor, or try to bring justice into our society are put down either as being a "goody-goody" or as being dangerous for trying to upset the status quo. Goodness can make others feel guilty and since they don't want to feel guilty, they blame those who are good.
Have you noticed that people often stand back when someone needs help, but once one person steps in to help, the bystanders will join in?
It seems that there are more people interested in taking pictures of a tragedy and then posting them on social media than they are in getting involved!
I don't know what kind of conscience they have, but I wouldn't call it "good." I wonder if they have ever heard Jesus' parable of "The Good Samaritan?"
We have heard. We do believe. We have hope and we can tell others the reason for our joy.
