Conviction: What Is It?

Conviction is critical. What is conviction? In general, conviction is defined as, “A strongly held belief, assurance, or commitment.” Many passages teach the importance of conviction. 1 Thess 1:5 reads, “Because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.” Hebrews 11:1 states, “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”

The Christian’s conviction starts with Christ’s own conviction. What was His conviction? The author of Hebrews describes Christ as “The founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (Heb 12:2). Jesus willingly embraced the cross out of love for humanity, knowing that His sacrifice would bring redemption of sin and eternal life to all who believe in Him. His willingness reflects the depth of God’s love for us and the magnitude of His grace.

This scriptural teaching on conviction begs this question believers should be asking themselves: “At what level is OUR conviction to live for the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?” The Holy Spirit beckons us to a deep faith—one with great conviction. May God the Father provide to us, thru the Holy Spirit, a conviction to serve our Savior, bringing honor and glory to Him only.

Rick Vallery, Elder