Nature of Sin
Sin is lawlessness, rebellion, distortion, and failure to love God rightly.
Formal Definition
Sin is any thought, desire, act, or condition contrary to the character, will, and glory of God.
Key Scriptures
Romans 3:23
Romans 6:23
1 John 3:4
James 4:17
Romans 6:23
1 John 3:4
James 4:17
Explanation
Sin includes commission and omission, outward acts and inward corruption. It is personal and structural, individual and corporate, yet always rooted in disordered worship and rebellion against God.
Scripture Index
Genesis 6:5
Psalm 51
Romans 1:18–32
Romans 3:9–23
James 4:17
Psalm 51
Romans 1:18–32
Romans 3:9–23
James 4:17
Subtopics
Transgression
Iniquity
Missing the mark
Corruption
Iniquity
Missing the mark
Corruption
Application / Why It Matters
A serious doctrine of sin leads to repentance, confession, humility, and a deeper appreciation of Christ’s saving work.
Historical / Church Reflection
The church has consistently rejected attempts to reduce sin to ignorance alone or to purely social dysfunction.
Viewpoints / Debates
Debates often concern total depravity, inherited corruption, and the effects of sin on freedom and reason.