[bible]Hebrews 13:18[/bible]
Would you say, based on this verse, that having a good conscience is defined as willingness to live well in all things, or with Owen, that such a willingness is a fruit and evidence of the good conscience?
In other words, does a good conscience consist in a sincere desire to do right in all your duties, or does that sincere desire come from having a good conscience already?
Would you say, based on this verse, that having a good conscience is defined as willingness to live well in all things, or with Owen, that such a willingness is a fruit and evidence of the good conscience?
The testimony of his having a good conscience consists in this, that he was “willing in all things to live honestly.” A will, resolution, and suitable endeavor, to live honestly in all things, is a fruit and evidence of a good conscience. Being willing, denotes readiness, resolution, and endeavor; and this extends to “all things;” that is, wherein conscience is concerned, or our whole duty towards God and men. The expression of “living honestly,” as it is commonly used, doth not reach the emphasis of the original. A beauty in conversation, or exact eminency therein, is intended. This was the design of the apostle in all things; and ought to he so of all ministers of the gospel, both for their own sakes, as unto what is in an especial manner required of them, as also that they may be examples unto the people.
In other words, does a good conscience consist in a sincere desire to do right in all your duties, or does that sincere desire come from having a good conscience already?