John 16:9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; I. WHAT IS SIN? Any want of conformity to or transgression of the law of God. This law is the eternal rule of rectitude. It is not merely a revelation of what is right and reasonable, but what we are bound to be conformed to. Of course our views of sin will be determined by our views of the law. If the law is only the law of reason, sin is simply unreasonable. If the law is limited so is sin. If the law is perfect, then all want of perfection is sin. II. CONVICTION OF SIN IS THEREFORE A CONVICTION OF WANT OF CONFORMITY TO THE LAW. This includes — 1. Want of conformity — (1) Of the heart. (2) Of conscious states of the mind. (3) Of particular acts. Under the gospel it is specially of unbelief, as a sin against Christ. 2. The consciousness of this as guilt, i.e., as justly exposing us to the condemnation of the law. 3. The sense of inability to make atonement. 4. The sense of defilement: that which renders us objects of abhorrence. This stands opposed to self-complacency and self-approbation. III. THE NECESSITY OF THIS CONVICTION ARISES OUT OF THE FACT THAT THE GOSPEL IS A PLAN FOR THE SALVATION OF SINNERS. It is designed for sinners. If we are not sinners, we do not need the gospel; and if we do not as sinners feel our need of the gospel we shall not embrace it. If we do not feel ourselves guilty and polluted we shall not look to Christ for pardon and cleansing. IV. WHAT KIND OR DEGREE OF CONVICTION IS NECESSARY? What are the evidences of genuine conviction? 1. Every man is convinced of sin in a certain sense and measure. But only in such a measure as is consistent with indifference or carelessness. 2. Others are so convinced as to create great anxiety and to lead to long and painful efforts to save themselves. 3. Others are so convinced as to be thoroughly persuaded that they can neither atone for their guilt, nor deliver themselves from defilement, or make themselves holy. This is the result to be desired. V. THIS CONVICTION CAN ONLY BE PRODUCED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT. (C. Hodge, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Of sin, because they believe not on me; |
    |