Biblical Answer

The Nature of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin is a breach or rupture of relations between the sinner and God. This is evident in the Old Testament teaching, where sin is often described as a matter of external actions or outward lack of conformity to the requirements of God. In the New Testament, sin is seen as a more pervasive and subtle character, involving inward thoughts and motives. The Bible also emphasizes the idea of bearing sin, which is found in Leviticus 24:15 and Isaiah 53:12, where the sin is transferred to another person, who bears the consequences of the sin.

The Source of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin originated with Adam's willful transgression, which brought sin and its consequences, including spiritual, physical, and eternal death, into the created order (Romans 5:12). As such, the biblical description of sin depends entirely on the relationship between God and humanity. Sin is not something that can be touched or overcome by human effort, but rather it is something that God touches through redemption. It is through the Cross of Christ that God redeemed the entire human race from the possibility of damnation through the heredity of sin.

The Consequences of Sin

The Bible teaches that sin has severe consequences, including spiritual, physical, and eternal death. The law of God is broken by sin, and the flesh is in a state of rebellion against God (Romans 7:19-25). The Bible also teaches that conviction of sin is a necessary step towards salvation, and that repentance and faith in Christ are the only ways to overcome sin and its consequences. The Bible defines sin as a state or habit of sin wilfully chosen and persisted in, and emphasizes the importance of seeking God's glory and living in obedience to His law. Ultimately, sin is a breach of relationship between God and humanity, and it can only be overcome through God's redemption and forgiveness through Jesus Christ.