"Digging Deep": The Purpose and Process of Forming Convictions

Convictions may be defined as deeply held beliefs and firm persuasions about one's own identity, God, family, vocation, society, and the world around.(1) These convictions are not innate or instantaneous; rather, they are formed gradually over time through a process of reflection, lived experience, moral reasoning, and, for those who are born again, through engagement with Scripture (Psalm 1:2–3) and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit (e.g., Romans 12:2; John 16:13). Unlike opinions or preferences, convictions function as internalized truths that shape one’s moral framework and become integral to the formation of personal identity and foundation for decision-making processes and life choices.(2)

The parable of the wise and foolish builders, as recorded by Jesus in Luke 6:47–49 and Matthew 7:24–27, may be used a vivid and theologically rich illustration of the role convictions in the life of an individual. In Luke’s account, Jesus says: “As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” (Luke 6:47–49, NIV).

The “rock” in this parable clearly symbolizes a firm, stable, and enduring foundation upon which a “house” or person’s life may be securely established. What distinguishes Luke’s version from Matthew’s account is the emphasis on the act of “digging deep” before laying the foundation. This phrase suggests a process that is both intentional and ardours, one that mirrors the inner efforts and endurance required for developing authentic convictions.

To “dig deep,” within the context of these reflections, appears to imply the process of serious spiritual or even existential inquiry. It entails honest self-examination, deliberate reflection, contemplation, and sometimes even inner struggle in the pursuit of what can be later claimed as personally held truth.(3) The process echoes the prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts” (Psalm 139:23–24). Convictions emerge not through passive absorption of what is given or passed over from someone else but through a sustained engagement with life’s questions, which are often accompanied by wrestling with truth, doubts, and prayer.

Moreover, the parable implies there are times of testing. This seems to be another essential part of the process of conviction formation. The “flood” and “torrent” are likely to symbolize life’s often inevitable crises, which may be the periods of suffering, pressure, temptation, loss, etc. These are the moments that may reveal authenticity and strength of one’s foundation (see 1 Peter 1:6–7). Conceivably, there is no other way to verify whether one’s beliefs are real convictions or merely convenient assumptions.

Importantly, once convictions are formed, the work of building begins. It is logical to suggest that just as the foundation defines the structure of a house, so too do convictions determine the moral and spiritual parameters within which a person builds their life. One cannot construct beyond what the foundation is to support. The idea of strong foundation aligns with Paul’s vision of spiritual maturity, where he says: “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being,” (Ephesians 3:16, NIV). The process of construction is similar to the formation of what Paul calls the “inner being”.

Jesus says that those who “who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice” (Luke 6:47, NIV) are the one who build on strong foundation. It is noteworthy that teaching of Christ is not merely descriptive. His method often included questions rather than direct instruction. Jesus invited listeners to examine their own motives and desires (see Matthew 20:32; John 1:38). Similarly, the formation of conviction requires one to ask some fundamental questions: What do I want? What am I called to do? What gifts and aspirations am I given? What values do I choose to live by? These are not abstract logical exercises; they are essential tasks that provoke honest answers concerning self awareness, emotional intelligence and personal vocation.(4)

Convictions, unsurprisingly, as it may be implied from the parable, cannot be inherited, bought our borrowed. Just as there is no mention of passing on a completed house, so too does it suggest that every individual must build their own foundation. The process of personal appropriation appears essential: beliefs must be examined, tested, and ultimately claimed as one’s own. Some may confuse tradition, cultural norms, or “second-hand” beliefs with true conviction.(5) However, it seems reasonable to assert that authentic conviction is deeply personal. It is the outcome of one’s own existential struggle with what one perceives is right or true.

The danger of superficiality is real as the words of Jesus suggest. The builder who fails to “dig deep” constructs on the surface. This may be equated to unexamined beliefs, mechanical religiosity, and moral relativism. Such an individual, when confronted with crises, may appear not sufficiently resilient in his/her belief system. Jesus said: “the moment the torrent struck... it collapsed, and its destruction was complete” (Luke 6:49).

Luke 6:47–49 thus offers a profound theological anthropology: convictions are not granted, they rather are struggled and fought for. On the other hand, the benefits are clear: in times of hardship, convictions serve as anchors. They are like the deep roots of a tree or the scaffolding that holds a building in place. They mark the boundaries of identity and provide shape and consistency to one’s life. Convictions sustain a person when outcomes are uncertain, when charisma or competence fail, and when inner strength is depleted.

As Paul writes, “Each one should be fully convinced in their own mind” (Romans 14:5). Clear convictions simplify decision-making, providing a framework of moral non-negotiables. This is well illustrated in the life of Daniel, who “resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine” (Daniel 1:8). His inner resolve, born of conviction, made his course of action clear.

References:

1. Jay Wegter, “How Biblical Convictions Become Christian Character,” Gospel for Life, March 2, 2024, https://www.gospelforlife.org/monthly-articles/2024/3/2/how biblical convictions become christian character.
2. R. Albert Mohler Jr., The Conviction to Lead: 25 Principles for Leadership That Matters (Bloomington, MN: Bethany House, 2012), 20.
3. Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart: Putting on the Character of Christ (Colorado Springs: NavPress, 2002), 40–42.
4. Parker J. Palmer, Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation (San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2000), 4–11.
5. Francis A. Schaeffer, The Great Evangelical Disaster (Westchester, IL: Crossway Books, 1984), 32–35.