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Study 05 of 49

The Nature of Sin

Sin as a state before it is ever an act

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Scripture uses sin both for the acts we commit and for the condition we inherit. Confusing the two produces either despair or shallow confidence. This unit separates sin as nature, sin as act, and sin as unbelief, and shows how the gospel answers each.

Key points

  • Sin is first a condition of separation, then a catalogue of acts.
  • The essence of sin is independence from God — living from self.
  • In the gospel age the condemning sin is unbelief, refusing the remedy provided.

Key texts

  • Romans 7:17-20
  • 1 John 3:4
  • Romans 14:23
  • John 16:8-9
  1. Comprehension

    1. How does Scripture use the word 'sin' in more than one sense?

  2. Scripture

    2. Read Romans 7:17. What does Paul distinguish between there?

  3. Doctrinal Clarity

    3. Why is 'sin is only breaking rules' an inadequate definition?

  4. Contrast

    4. Contrast dealing with sins (forgiveness) and dealing with sin (deliverance).

  5. Scripture

    5. Read Romans 14:23. Why is whatever is not of faith called sin?

  6. Doctrinal Clarity

    6. Read John 16:8-9. Why does the Spirit convict of sin 'because they believe not on me'?

  7. Application

    7. Which do you fight more — acts or the self-life behind them?

  8. Application

    8. How would you comfort a believer terrified by the discovery of indwelling sin?