SIN

(The Greek word for sin is harmartia. It means to “miss the mark.” Sin, therefore, is one missing the mark of perfection in order to be considered righteous before God.)

A. Definition of sin:

1. Sin is breaking God's law (1 Jn 3:4).
2. Sin is not doing biblical principles of good (Js 4:17).
3. Sin is doing that which is against one's conscience (Rm 14:23).
4. Sin is doing unrighteousness (1 Jn 5:17).
5. Sin is not inherited from the parents (Ez 18:20).
6. Sin against the Holy Spirit is disobedience and is unforgivable if one continues to rebel against the will of God (Mt 12:31; Mk 3:29; Lk 12:10; Hb 6:4-8; 10:26-31; 1 Jn 5:16).

B. Things that cause sin:

1. One's own heart (Mt 15:19).
2. The work of Satan (Jn 8:44; 1 Pt 5:8).
3. The lust of man (Js 1:13-15; 1 Jn 2:15,16).
4. Pride (1 Pt 5:6,7).
5. Love of the world (Js 4:4; 1 Jn 2:15).

C. Results of sin:

1. Destruction from the presence of God (2 Th 1:7- 9).
2. Separation from God (Is 59:1,2).
3. Spiritual death (Rm 6:23; Ep 2:1-3).
4. Eternal separation from Jesus (Mt 7:21-23).

D. Solution for sin:

1. The cleansing of Jesus’ blood (Ep 1:3,7; 1 Jn 1:7-9).
2. Sin can be forgiven (1 Jn 3:5,6).
3. Jesus' death makes forgiveness possible (Is 53; 1 Pt 2:24).
4. One is baptized for remission of sins (At 2:38).
5. God washes away sin, at baptism (At 22:16).