Articles
The Problem Of Sin
Mankind has a sin problem. In fact, there has been a sin problem since the beginning with the very first man and woman, Adam and Eve (Genesis 3).
What is sin? Sin is defined in the Bible as transgression of the law of God. “Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness” (I John 3:4). What if God had not given men and women a law to follow? Paul tells us that “where there is no law there is no transgression” (Romans 4:15). But God has always given mankind a law to be obeyed. Literally, sin means “to miss the mark.” Men sin whenever they miss the mark of God’s Word.
Just by noticing the Bible’s definition of sin we can see that sin is committed, not inherited. Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin” (John 8:34). “The soul who sins shall die. The son shall not bear the guilt of the father, nor the father bear the guilt of the son. The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself” (Ezekiel 18:20). The sin itself, nor the guilt of sin, is passed on to others. Each individual is responsible (accountable) for their own sins against God.
Who is guilty of sin? First of all, the Bible is quite clear that babies and young children are not guilty of sin. Little ones “have no knowledge of good and evil” (Deut. 1:39). In fact, Jesus taught His disciples: “Assuredly, I say to you, unless you are converted and become as little children, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore whoever humbles himself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven” (Matt. 18:3-4).
However, we certainly recognize that there comes a time in each one’s life when there is knowledge of good and evil, bringing accountability for one’s actions (Gen. 3:1-13).
There comes a time when it certainly is true that “ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Rom. 3:23; cf. 3:9-12; Gal. 3:22).
What are the consequences of sin? Sin brings death. “For the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). This is a spiritual death. Our sins separate us from God (Isa. 59:1-2).
Sin is a problem for all of us since all of us sin and act contrary to God’s will. Sin brings death, separating us from our holy God. Thus, our common need for a Savior!
