Biblical Answer

Understanding Sin in the Bible

The Bible defines sin as a breach or rupture of relations between the sinner and the personal God. In the Old Testament, sin is often seen as a matter of external actions or outward lack of conformity to the requirements of God. While inward thoughts and motives are not ignored, the focus is primarily on outward actions. In the New Testament, sin is understood as a state of being and an act of the human will, encompassing both moral evil and active rebellion against God's established standards.

The Nature of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin consists of active rebellion against God's established standards. It is both a state of being and an act of the human will, characterized by moral evil. Sin can only be defined in the context of the God of the Bible and his character. The biblical description of sin depends entirely on the concept of God's holiness and His moral perfection. Sin is not an element of moral perfection, and if it were derived from God, it would not be damnable and therefore not sin.

The Origin and Consequences of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin entered the created order through the willful transgression of Adam (Romans 5:12). As a result, sin and its consequences (including spiritual, physical, and eternal death) affect all humanity. The definition of sin given above specifies that sin is a failure to conform to God's moral law not only in action and in attitude, but also in our moral nature. Our very existence and actions are tainted by sin, and only through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ can we be redeemed from its effects.