Paul’s Testimony: Conviction of Sin

Sunday, April 22, 2018 ()

Bible Text: Acts 26:12-14 | Series:

Paul’s Testimony: Conviction of Sin

Acts 26:12–14

Paul’s conversion is an example that all conversions follow. Every Christian first began as a non-Christian.

  1. Every conversion testimony includes the recognition and understanding that I am a sinner - 12a
    1. Paul was born into and raised up in a conservative religious home.
    2. Paul committed the most heinous kind of sin.
    3. Paul confessed to having a sinful heart - Romans 7:8 But sin, taking opportunity by the commandment, produced in me all manner of evil desire.
    4. Paul understood himself to be the greatest sinner deserving of the severest judgment and in the most desperate need of salvation - 1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief. 
  1. Every conversion testimony includes the conviction of sin - 12b–14
    1. Sinners experience guilt for sin through their conscience - Roman 2:15  who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them
    2. The Holy Spirit convicts sinners concerning Christ - John 16:8–11
      1. Sin: unbelief is the proof of sinfulness.
      2. Righteousness: God’s righteousness is in Christ.
      3. Judgment: Satan is judged and all who follow him are judged.
    3. Paul was a sinner under conviction for His sin against Jesus.
      1. His name mentioned twice is personal and intimate.
      2. He realized his sin was against Jesus personally.
    4. Paul could not resist the convicting work of the Holy Spirit.
      1. A goad is a pointed stick that directs animals.
      2. Paul was being convicted by the Holy Spirit.
      3. It was becoming too difficult for Paul to resist Jesus.

"I do not understand how a man can be a true believer, in whom sin is not the greatest burden, sorrow and trouble."- John Owen


For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me;

My vitality was turned into the drought of summer. Selah



And You forgave the iniquity of my sin. Selah

Psalm 32:3–5