How can Paul make such a bold statement? Paul is less than perfect. He recalled with honesty how he used to persecute followers of The Way. Jesus had to strike him blind and change his ways but we know that Paul wasn't without flaw even after that. In Romans 7 Paul documents his ongoing struggle with sin. Now in this moment he is on trial because of his actions and he begins and ends his defense by appealing to his conscience. The result: He gets struck on the mouth (vs. 2).
The High Priest and the others were appalled that Paul appealed to his conscience. The Jews know full well that, "the heart is deceitful above all and beyond cure" (Jer. 17:9). Conscience is tied up with the heart so how can anyone trust a faulty, deceitful, incurable, and fallible conscience? Paul even knew this! So what was he getting at?
Paul was not saying that he had never committed a wrong. Or even that he was not punishable for his wrongs. Paul was simply supremely aware of the effects of the Gospel that brought freedom to his conscience. Paul was, in fact, very guilty. He was guilty of more sins than this trial would even dare to try. He was guilty and punishable. However, Paul had already settled accounts with the Supreme Judge. Through the gospel of Jesus' death burial and resurrection, Paul has been freed from the condemnation of his sin. The penalty has been paid and freedom has been granted.
So why was this so offensive? The priest had a system for dealing with sin. It included sacrifices and ritual that could deal with sin and remove the condemnation of the punishment. But, there was always a catch. Even as the Priest was finishing up his yearly duties on the day of Atonement, people were already committing new sin. So conscience was never satisfied. Sin was always a problem. There was always uncertainty of whether or not God would accept the sacrifice.
But with Christ, the sacrifice was once for all and perfect, satisfying the wrath of God totally. Liberating mankind from the powers of sin and the fear of punishment. That is not to say we never struggle with sin, but we are free!
Paul felt that. He lived that. He preached that.
After appropriating the gospel that morning (as Paul did everyday!), he stood before the assembly totally free and totally cleansed by the power of the blood of Jesus Christ! He had fulfilled his duty, the duty of living in the beauty and grace of the Gospel of Christ. His conscience was clear! He was and is loved by the Creator of all things!
So, how you livin'? Do you feel the gospel liberation in you soul? Have you experienced today the wonder and majesty of the work of Christ on your behalf? No matter where you have been or how bad your week is, Christ is greater still! He can forgive your sins, wash your wounds, and set you totally free! Today, you can stand before not only men, but God, and say, "I have fulfilled my duty, my conscience is clear. Not on the basis of my works, but on the basis of what Jesus Christ has done for me. Praise His Glorious Name!"
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