In The Conscience of Man, Michael E.B. Maher explores the nature, origin, and function of the human conscience from a biblical perspective. He explains that man is composed of spirit, soul, and body. The conscience is part of the inner man, located in the brain, and its role is to distinguish good from evil, convicting individuals of wrongdoing and affirming right actions.

The conscience was not present at creation but emerged after Adam and Eve ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, activating their awareness of sin. It remains dormant until puberty (around age thirteen), when it becomes operational. All humans have a conscience, but it can be weakened through disobedience or strengthened through obedience.

Believers do not receive a new conscience at salvation; rather, their conscience is cleansed by Christ’s blood. A good conscience is essential for spiritual growth and effective service to God. Maher warns that persistent disregard for the conscience can sear it, leading to spiritual shipwreck. He also emphasizes that the conscience is not shaped by culture or tradition—it reflects God’s absolute moral standards. Ultimately, the conscience plays a key role in salvation, convicting sinners of their need for Christ.

 

Book 3 of 5: Man, the Image of God