Reply To: Harmatology 2024/2025 Discussion Board 1

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Before I proceed to explain how a proper understanding of sin has helped me in my Christian walk, it is important to first define sin and highlight some key facts about it.
Definition of Sin
Sin simply means “to miss the mark” and, as a result, not share in the prize. It also means to err, offend, or trespass.
Another definition of sin, as seen in 1 John 3:4, is lawlessness or transgression of God’s will either by omitting what God’s Word requires or by doing what it forbids.
It is important to note that sin can occur in three ways: in your thoughts, words, and actions.
In thoughts – 1 John 3:15 states that hatred in the heart is equivalent to murder.
In words – Matthew 5:22 warns against speaking in anger without cause.
In actions – Romans 1:32 speaks of sinful deeds and their consequences.
To summarize, sin is the degeneration from the original good state in which God created humanity. It is crucial to understand that this degeneration was not orchestrated by the Creator, nor was it intentionally placed in man at creation. Instead, it resulted from a willful act of disobedience by man, which affected his original state of goodness. Ecclesiastes 7:29 affirms this by stating that God made men upright.

Key Facts About Sin
1. Sin is a willful act of disobedience to God’s commands.
There is a Creator God who has laid down principles and ways in His Word regarding how He wants things to be done. Willfully going against His ways is sin. A look at the introduction of sin in the Garden of Eden shows that sin always results when man disobeys God’s Word (Genesis 3).

2. Sin is not determined by God.
Anyone who claims that God determines sin is indirectly suggesting that God created humans as robots with no free will. But that is not true. A righteous God would not create humans only to program them to sin or act against His will. Since sin is a willful disobedience to God’s command, it comes with consequence,s and the Bible makes it clear that sin always leads to consequences. Romans 6:23 states, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” This consequence is not just physical death but also spiritual separation from God. Sin corrupts, enslaves, and ultimately brings destruction when left unchecked (James 1:15).

3. Sin is not an irresistible pleasure for humanity.
One of the most powerful biblical truths is that sin is not an irresistible force. God has given believers the ability to overcome temptation through His Word and the Holy Spirit. James 4:7 states, “Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” This means that while sin is a reality we are faced with, it is not an inescapable trap; we have the power through Christ to resist and live righteously.
The understanding that sin is a decision will help believers resist sin when tempted to sin. The only challenge, however, is that people do not realize how quickly they make that decision due to the fallen nature of man, which was introduced in the Garden of Eden when Adam fell. However, sin is not an irresistible pleasure that we are powerless against. As Christians, we now have a recreated human spirit that desires to please God. The more we yield to God’s Word and His Spirit, the greater our capacity to resist sin.

How Understanding Sin Has Helped Me in My Christian Walk
The fact that sin is a choice has had a profound impact on my Christian life. Many times, people justify sinful actions by blaming external circumstances, but I have come to realize that every act of sin is a decision I make. This understanding has made me more conscious of my actions, thoughts, and words. Instead of feeling powerless against temptation, I now take responsibility for my choices and rely on God’s Word for strength. I have learned that through prayer, studying Scripture, and yielding to the Holy Spirit, I can make choices that align with God’s will rather than giving in to sin.
Conclusion
A proper biblical understanding of sin shapes how I live as a Christian. Knowing that sin is a deliberate act, that it carries consequences, and that it is resistible has empowered me to live a life that honors God. Through this study, I am learning to be more intentional in my walk with Christ, seeking His strength daily to overcome sin and grow in my knowledge of righteousness.