Conviction—found only one time in scripture (John 8:9). However, conviction’s associated word convince appears seven times in seven verses.
Variations: convicted
Definition: the proving of guilt
Interesting fact: The first occurrence of convince in the Bible offers insight into the relationship between convince and convict. Job initially maintained his dignity and righteousness, but eventually something turned his heart. Job’s three friends tried to do God’s work of convicting Job, but they failed miserably. In fact, Elihu, the only man to truly speak for God, replied the following to Job’s friends: “I attended unto you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced Job, or that answered his words” (Job 32:12). These words closely followed the doctrinal pronouncement: “there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding” (Job 32:8). Job was convinced (or convicted) when God opened Job’s eyes to spiritual understanding.
Bible study tip: Even some of the sincerest Bible students find it hard to understand exactly how to study and implement the Old Testament law. Some incorrectly teach that the law is void and thus useless. According to other Bible teachers, the law should be studied and also fully obeyed. As is often the case, the truth resides between these two extremes. On one hand, we “are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14). Yet, on the other hand, “the law is good” (1 Timothy 1:8). The conclusion at the end of the verse in Timothy offers the insight into understanding the law’s application. Christians are told the law is good “if a man use it lawfully.” All things considered, there are Bible principles presented in God’s law that remain viable today. One of the most important keys to identifying these presently relevant principles is to consider their repetition in the New Testament, especially in Paul’s epistles. For example, consider Romans 13:8-10.
Sunday, Day 78—Church Day (no devotional)
Monday, Day 79—What Is Conviction?
Tuesday, Day 80—The Source of Conviction
Wednesday, Day 81—Church Night (no devotional)
Thursday, Day 82—The Work of Conviction
Friday, Day 83—The Seat of Conviction
Saturday, Day 84—The Desire for Conviction
Day 78: Church Day
John 8:7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.
8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.
9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.