Wrestling with Sin: Truth and Grace for the Christian (1 John 1:8)
Scripture Reading: 1 John 1:8
"If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us."
Introduction:
The reality of sin in the Christian life is a complex and often misunderstood topic. Some believe Christians are perpetually steeped in sin, while others strive for an unattainable perfection. Today, we will explore the biblical perspective on Christian sin, seeking to understand its nature and how we are to respond.
I. The Misunderstanding: What Sin Is and Isn't
A. Defining Sin (1 John 3:4; Romans 4:15):
• Sin is the transgression of the law. When we break God's law, we sin.
• This applies to all transgressions, regardless of their perceived size or significance.
• The absence of transgression means the absence of sin.
B. Misconceptions about Sin:
1. Lack of Perfection: We are not perfect, but imperfection is not synonymous with sin.
2. Mistakes: Errors in judgment or unintentional slips are not necessarily sinful.
3. Missed Opportunities: Failing to seize every opportunity does not automatically constitute sin.
II. The Reality: Christians Do Not Sin as Much as Some Think
A. The Notion of Constant Sin (1 John 2:1):
• Some believe Christians sin continuously, every hour of every day.
• This view is often reflected in prayers that ask for forgiveness for "many, many, many sins."
• This notion contradicts the purpose of 1 John 2:1, which speaks of avoiding sin.
• This is a misconception of the nature of sin.
B. The "Sinful Nature" Argument (Romans 3:12):
• Some justify sin by claiming it is their "nature," an unavoidable consequence of being human.
• This belief, often rooted in Calvinistic theology, suggests that we are inherently incapable of doing right.
• However, Romans 3:12 speaks of people "becoming" that way, not being born that way.
• It's just as human to do right as wrong.
III. The Distinction: Christians Do Not Make a Practice of Sin (Romans 6; 1 John 2:1ff; 3:1-9; 5:16-18)
• The Bible clearly teaches that Christians are not to continue in sin (Romans 6).
• We are called to "not sin" (1 John 2:1ff; 3:1-9).
• There is a distinction between sin "not unto death" (correctable sin) and sin "unto death" (unrepentant sin) (1 John 5:16-18).
• Christians do sin (1 John 1:8), but they do not make a practice of it.
• The difference lies in correction versus continuation.
IV. The Choice: Christians Do Not "Have To" Sin (1 John 2:1; Romans 6:13)
• Some believe that Christians are compelled to sin, unable to resist their "weaknesses."
• However, the command to "not sin" (1 John 2:1) implies that we have a choice.
• Every sin is a conscious choice (Romans 6:13).
• There is no sin that a person is forced to commit.
V. The Humility: Christians Will Not Be Perfect (1 John 1:8)
A. The Reality of Imperfection:
• The question of whether sinless perfection is possible is largely irrelevant, as the Bible acknowledges that none of us achieve it (1 John 1:8).
• The fact remains: none of us are perfect.
B. The Need for Forgiveness (1 John 1:7):
• The Bible's emphasis on forgiveness for believers suggests that we will inevitably fall short of God's perfect standard.
• Lacking perfection is not the same as actively sinning.
- Can bad influence keep young people away from the church?
- Why do Christians suffer?
- What did Jesus do in his last days?
Conclusion:
The Christian life is a journey of growth and sanctification, not a state of sinless perfection. We will stumble, but we are called to repent and turn back to God. We are not bound to sin, but empowered by the Holy Spirit to live righteously. Let us embrace the truth of our imperfection, while striving to live in obedience to God's Word, relying on His grace and forgiveness. Amen.
