by Tony Cooper, Executive Director (for Birmingham Christian Family magazine)
WHAT ABOUT SIN?
Sin is not a popular topic these days and is something that we do not think about much. It is defined as transgression. I John 3:4 says, “Everyone who sins breaks the [God’s] law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.” James 4:17 goes a step further in saying that the, “one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.”
Sin is universal; it affects everyone. Romans 3:23 confirms this when it tells us that, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” while Romans 5:12 adds, “1:8 goes further in adding that, “if we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”
What is the consequence of sin? It is separation from God. Sin creates a barrier between a holy God and sinful man. Romans 6:23 tells us that the cost of sin is spiritual separation from God. Thankfully, “the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
The only remedy for sin and that is Jesus’ death on the cross which I John 1:7 says, “purifies us from all sin.” Romans 5:8 adds that, “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
What is our responsibility in dealing with our sin? First, take ownership for it and admit it. I John 1:9 reminds us that, “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Next, place faith in God. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Then, invite Jesus Christ into your life as Lord and Savior. In Revelation 3:20 Jesus says, “Behold, I stand at the door [of your heart] and knock; If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with Me.” Romans 10:9 says, “That if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus as Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
If you have not addressed the sin in your life, I strongly encourage you to do so!