13. What Is Sin?

Sinful Nature Desires

Sin is described in the Bible as transgression of the law of God (1 John 3:4)

That is why the scripture (Psa 119:11) says “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

That is why it is imperative to read and study the Word of God (Your Bible) for ourselves, so we know exactly what God considers sin and instill that knowledge into our children. We should want to understand and know what God desires of us and for us.

To Sin Is A “Willful” Act

Sin Is Not By Accident

A sin is NOT an accident. A person cannot commit a sin “by accident.” Sinning is a willful act. The Bible says, “Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). If a person doesn’t know what they are doing is wrong, it is not a sin to them. A person has to know the right (good) thing to do, and then choose not to do it, in order to sin.

A sin is NOT a mistake. A mistake is NOT a sin. A mistake is an error that is committed accidentally. A sin is a willful act of disobeying God.

A sin is NOT a fault. A fault is NOT a sin. A sin is a willful act of disobeying God. A fault is a flaw or weakness.

Now that we understand what sin is we can better understand other topics as they relate to sin.