The Doctrine of Sin

Many people live their lives having an understanding of what sin is, but many do not study it to know how to overcome it.  Sin is defined as an offence; the determination of human nature in hostility to God; action opposed to the divine ordinance that corresponds with what is right; a contradiction to what is right; anything that contradicts God’s character of holiness.  These are not Webster's dictionary definitions but original language from the Bible definitions.  Understanding what sin is and how it operates helps soldiers of God to overcome their enemy more often. 

Isaiah 14:12-15 displays that sin originated in Heaven with Lucifer as he begins to make the "I will" statements in rebellion to God and His authority.  Lucifer states he will ascend to heaven.  As angels are already in heaven, a study shows there are three layers to heaven.  Most of the angels reside in the second sphere of heaven, making this an issue of pride for Lucifer to go to the same level as God Himself.  Lucifer also desires to set his throne above God's other angels.  The King James says stars of God, but many scriptures reference angels as stars (Job 38:7; Jude 13).  Although Lucifer was the worship leader in the band of angels, he desired more power than did not belong to him at the time. 

Lucifer also states he will preside on the mountain of congregation, reflecting he desires a kingdom on the earth, not just in leading certain angels.  Next, Lucifer says he will climb the height of the clouds and be like the Most High, meaning God.  Lucifer desires a glory that does not belong to him, and his pride thinks he can have what he lusts for.  His attempt to be like God reflects his independence from God and opposition to God's will.  The height of arrogance is to think one does not need God and also be equal to Him.  Understanding this person instituted sin allows a deeper insight into the nature of sin. 

Genesis 3:1-21 displays the attempt and success Lucifer, now the serpent, had in deceiving the woman and Adam.  The serpent knows what God told Adam and the woman, but he breeds doubt by proposing questions to feed into the woman's insecurity.  Sin thrives on insecurities.  Insecurities are areas that lack faith. 

The serpent twists God's words, and then he builds on the doubt he bred into the woman's mind and heart.  This is the same method Satan uses when tempting Jesus in the wilderness.  Satan quotes scripture but twists it just enough to make it fit what he desires it to say.  The spiritual enemy still operates in this manner, deceiving many who do not know the Word of God for themselves.  Christians must know the Word for themselves to build faith and to have discernment of what aligns with God and what does not.  As sin enters, contamination and shame ensue (Genesis 1:8). 

To help not remain focused on the nature of sin and its deception, there is a way out of sinful living and to be set free from its eternal effects. The way is Jesus (John 14:6).  Jesus was conscious of being a victor over sin even before His crucifixion and resurrection (John 16:33).  Jesus says He has overcome the world.  He is referencing the world's system of sin.  To overcome is defined in this verse as to conquer; subdue; prevail against; get the victory over.  No one has to stay bound to sin and its dominion.   Although every Christian will still fight the sinful attitude that tries to creep in, they no longer are under its power but have power over it through Jesus Christ.  Jesus conquered sin so anyone who chooses can live in the liberty of God and be bold for Him. The boldness comes from having the contamination that sin brings washed away by confessing one's sins before God and being forgiven (1 John 1:9).  May more Christians understand what sin is and how it operates to have more victory.  For more information about Abundant Grace Church, visit agcsparta.org.