P.E.W. Perspective

I know, sin is not the most popular thing to talk about. It is important to talk about it though because sin is insidious and rears it’s ugly head without notice. The fact that you are a disciple of Jesus does not give immunity from sin. 1 John 1:8 says “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.”

To be clear, a disciple of Jesus cannot be living a sinful lifestyle. 1 John 3:6 makes it clear. “No one who lives in Him keeps on sinning. No one who continues to sin has either seen Him or known Him.” This verse refers to those who keep on sinning, living a sinful lifestyle. It does not mean that Christians can never sin. Read 1 John 5:16, If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life.” So if it was impossible for a Christian to sin, why would we need instructions to help a brother who has sinned?

What to do? Jesus purchased your salvation and you have accepted that gift and become His follower. You allow the Holy Spirit to guide your everyday life and make every attempt to live a holy life, and yet suddenly you do, say or think something that you immediately recognize as sin. We have all been there. It does not mean that we are not really saved, it does not mean that God has stopped watching out for us – it just means that we are human beings and continue to be subject to the influence of the fall.

Let me encourage you. When you sin, do not keep on sinning. Instead acknowledge your sin to God and ask Him to forgive you according to the sacrifice of His son and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit to help you resist temptation, then continue in your service to God

In another post I will deal with what sin actually is.