Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Nature:Sin, in the biblical context, is any action, thought, or attitude that transgresses the will and law of God. It is a fundamental concept in Christian theology, representing a moral failing and a breach of divine command. Iniquity, often used interchangeably with sin, emphasizes the inherent crookedness or perversity of such actions. The Bible presents sin as both an act and a condition, affecting the individual and the community.
Biblical Origin:The origin of sin is traced back to the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, as recorded in
Genesis 3. This original sin introduced a fallen state into the human condition, affecting all of creation.
Romans 5:12 states, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."
Nature and Consequences:Sin is described as missing the mark of God's holiness and righteousness. It is an affront to God's character and results in separation from Him.
Isaiah 59:2 declares, "But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He will not hear." The consequences of sin are both temporal and eternal, leading to spiritual death and, without redemption, eternal separation from God.
Types of Sin:The Bible categorizes sin in various ways, including sins of commission (active disobedience) and sins of omission (failure to do what is right). Additionally, there are personal sins, which are individual acts, and corporate sins, which involve collective wrongdoing. The Ten Commandments (
Exodus 20:1-17) provide a foundational understanding of specific sins against God and neighbor.
The Law and Sin:The Mosaic Law was given to reveal sin and guide the Israelites in righteous living.
Romans 7:7 explains, "What then shall we say? Is the law sinful? Certainly not! Indeed, I would not have been aware of sin if it had not been for the law. For I would not have known coveting if the law had not said, 'Do not covet.'" The law serves to highlight humanity's inability to achieve righteousness on its own.
Redemption and Forgiveness:Central to Christian doctrine is the belief that Jesus Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection provide the means for redemption from sin. 1
John 1:9 assures believers, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." Through faith in Christ, individuals are justified and reconciled to God.
Sanctification and Victory Over Sin:Believers are called to live a life of sanctification, growing in holiness and overcoming sin through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 6:14 encourages, "For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but under grace." The Christian life involves a continual process of repentance, renewal, and transformation.
Eternal Perspective:The ultimate defeat of sin is promised in the eschatological hope of the new creation, where sin and its effects will be eradicated.
Revelation 21:4 envisions a future where "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away."
Conclusion:While sin is a pervasive and destructive force, the Bible offers a message of hope and redemption through Jesus Christ. Believers are called to live in the light of this truth, striving for holiness and relying on God's grace for victory over sin.
