Biblical Answer

Understanding Sin in the Context of God's Sovereignty

As Christians, we must acknowledge the disturbing fact of sin in our lives. However, unlike other perspectives, Christianity faces sin squarely and deals with it through God's grace. We recognize that sin is a universal reality, a consequence of Adam's sin (Romans 5:12). God, as the Sovereign of the universe, orders all things according to His good pleasure, and humanity is accountable to Him (Romans 11:32). While we may struggle with sin, we understand that it is not God's will that we sin, but rather that He desires our holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3).

Three Methods for Discussing Sin

When discussing sin in contemporary society, we can employ three methods: (1) Scriptural confrontation: We must confront sin with the clear teaching of God's Word, exposing its destructive nature and the consequences of unrepentance (Hebrews 12:1-17). (2) Personal testimony: We can share our personal experiences of struggling with sin and the transforming power of God's grace in our lives (1 John 1:5-10). (3) Redemptive hope: We can offer the hope of redemption through Jesus Christ, emphasizing that sin does not have the final say, but rather God's love and mercy can overcome it (John 3:16-17).

The Necessity of God's Word

Ultimately, understanding sin requires a deep commitment to the authority of God's Word. We must recognize that sin is not just a moral issue, but a spiritual one, and that our only hope for deliverance lies in the gospel of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:24-26). By grounding our understanding of sin in Scripture, we can avoid the pitfalls of human reasoning and societal pressures, and instead, find the freedom and hope that comes from knowing God's truth (John 8:31-32). In the face of sin, we must turn to God's Word, which is the "mirror" that reveals our true condition (James 1:23-25). By doing so, we can find the strength to confess our sin, seek forgiveness, and walk in the light of God's redeeming love (1 John 1:5-10).