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I. THE FACTS OF CONSCIENCE.

1. We have a discernment of the difference between right and wrong.

2. We approve of the one and we disapprove of the other, as of good and bad laws.

3. We condemn ourselves for what conscience disapproves in our states and acts.

4. We are impelled by conscience to do what is right, and deterred by it from what is wrong.

II. OF THIS MYSTERIOUS POWER THE OBVIOUS CHARACTERISTICS ARE —

1. That it is independent of the understanding and will.

2. It is authoritative.

3. It does not speak in its own name. The authority which it exercises is not its own.

4. It is avenging. Remorse is a state produced by conscience.

III. OUR DUTY IN REGARD TO CONSCIENCE.

1. To enlighten it.

2. To obey it.

3. Not only to obey it in particular cases, but to have a fixed and governing purpose to permit it to rule.The ground of this obligation to obey conscience is —

1. The authority of God in whose name it, speaks.

2. Respect for our own dignity as rational and moral beings.

(C. Hedge, D. D.)

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KJV: And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth themselves in him.

WEB: King Herod heard this, for his name had become known, and he said, "John the Baptizer has risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him."