Understanding Sin

“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned.” Romans 5:12

Try to convince the average unbeliever that he is a sinner who needs the saving work of Christ in his life, and often you get this type of response: “I know that I’ve done some wrong things, but nobody’s perfect.” Isn’t it interesting how readily people will admit to having a sinful nature an at the same time try to soothe their burning consciences by putting everyone else into the same category.

What do we mean by the term sin or sinner. Many are taught that sin consists of evil or wrong things which people do. But it goes far beyond that. Sin is not so much a definition of wrong performance; it defines a wrong relationship. Defined very basically, sin is a mindset, a lifestyle, an existence which is set on independence and rebellion against God. Sinners’ performances mirror their real selves.

On the stage of life, the actors are playing their real hearts. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; who can understand it?” Yes, we all have to admit to a sinful nature, a heart set against God. But the cure comes through the cleansing rebirth or the change of relationship - from sinner to Son.

Think about it -
"Sin is not wrong doing; it is wrong being. It is independence of God." - Oswald Chambers