We have discussed in prior chapters the first step to entering the gateway to improved biblically-based wellbeing is acceptance by faith in Christ’s forgiveness for our misdeeds by his death on the cross. Then we evaluated the importance of understanding that our salvation is secure!
So then why do Christians feel guilty? This appears to be a common emotion in our society and almost certainly reduces wellbeing. The exact incidence of guilt is unknown in the general population or in the church, but anecdotally this author can attest that guilt is seen in almost all young people, even if they have grown up in the church and consider themselves Christians.
Recently Teleios surveyed a group of attendees of a conservative Bible teaching church to determine their levels of guilt and underlying reasons. In total 70% said they felt guilty. Look below at the results! Who knew? Table 1 shows potential reasons for guilt and additional effects for those expressing feeling of guilt. Learn more at https://teleiosresearch.com/the-influence-of-guilt-on-wellbeing/.
To summarize these findings, among 70% of church goers in a strong evangelical church who admit to guilt, it appears to occur at three basic different levels:
- Unbelieving Individuals – These respondents have not understood the complete saving grace provided by Christ’s death, accessed by faith alone.
- Spiritually Insecure Individual – These believers have failed to understand that they are secure in their salvation and cannot become unsaved.
- Disturbed Relationship with God – This group appears to be the most common. They understand they are saved and secure but still believe they must work to satisfy God for His acceptance on a day to day basis.
Teleios also performed a survey on the University of Georgia campus and found that approximately 70% of evangelical Christians felt guilty although fortunately the level of guilt was mild and did not appear to affect their overall wellbeing. Learn more at https://teleiosresearch.com/religious-social-influences-wellbeing-college-students/.
So, what is the cure for guilt?
The Bible makes no provision for guilt for a believer. Search the epistles and see if you can find it!
The Bible indicates that we have free access to Christ, our great high priest, to help us with every need at any time! We can approach God with courage, unimpeded and unafraid (Hebrews 2:17-18; Hebrews 4:14-16).
The Bible tells us that Christ died once for all our wrongdoings. For anyone who does not believe they have been forgiven, there is no alternative provision for their sin (Hebrews 6:4-6; Hebrews 10:12-18).
Therefore, the solution to misdeeds for the Christian is to not ask for forgiveness but to acknowledge God’s merciful forgiveness that has already been granted (Colossians 1:14; Ephesians 1:7), recognize His acceptance and our access (Hebrews 10:19-22) and to become obedient, moving forward and maturing in the faith (Galatians 3:1; Galatians 5:7; Romans 6:16-23; Hebrews 5:11-6:1).
What a healthy outlook! As a Christian we can know that we are forgiven, sure in our relationship with God through Christ, know we have a wonderful high priest to help us in our time of need, and when we commit a wrong, we are confident of our forgiveness. Guilt is not part of the biblical Christian life!
In summary, the cure for guilt appears to be a knowledge of a person’s salvation through faith in Jesus Christ and being secure in this fact. Our salvation allows a free access to God in prayer without fear. This knowledge is supported by spiritual growth by adhering to the 5 tools of maturity: prayer, praise, outreach, Bible study and fellowship (Acts 2:42,47). Such actions help mature a believer, through the Spirit, allowing fruit in a believer’s life (Galatians 5:22-23).
Thanks again for joining me. Please come again next time as we continue vital and interesting topics on the Christian life.
William C. Stewart, MD
Disclaimer – This blog and its content are provided only as information. No content on the website should be taken as advice or recommendation to any personal or institutional situation. The views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily either shared or endorsed by Teleios. Both the blog and the contents are subject to change at any time without notice. Although I endeavor to ensure that the blog and the content are current and accurate, it may contain errors. I do not represent that the blog or the content is current, accurate or complete, or appropriate for your specific requirements. I do not accept any liability from any person for the blog, the content or any other information (or the use of such information) I provide. I do not have a seminary degree, but I have trained myself in the scriptures to teach and provide this information. For any specific question, I suggest you contact experts in that field and or do your own research into the scriptures.
