Sin in the Life of Believers: We Must Talk About It

Sin is a topic within the body of Christ (the church) that necessitates boldness, comprehension, and most importantly, compassion towards each other:

1. Boldness to acknowledge that we, as God's children, should not lead a life of unrepentant sin.

2. Comprehension to recognize the reality of the battle against sin.

3. Compassion to seek mercy through prayer, knowing that we all sin and require forgiveness.

As we delve into the Scriptures, we embark on a journey that sheds light on the reality of sin in the life of believers and the path to living a holy life that is pleasing to our Father in heaven.

Holiness (Sanctification) is Not a Denomination

Throughout Scripture, Old and New Testament, God's people are commanded to live holy (Leviticus 11:44; Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:13-16; 1 John 1:5-7).

Holiness for God's people means living a life that reflects His holiness, bringing Him glory.

Ephesians 5:1 urges us to imitate God as His dear children.

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit is given to us at the moment of our salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14), and we are warned not to grieve Him through sinful behavior (Ephesians 4:30).

Therefore, disregarding or showing hostility towards any reference to sin may lead to living a life that is not pleasing to our Father.

The Struggle is Real

Paul, under inspiration of the Holy Spirit, wrote 13 books of the Bible.

Here is what he had to say, in Romans 7:15-20, about his own struggle with the sin nature:

"For what I am doing, I do not understand. For what I will to do, that I do not practice; but what I hate, that I do. If, then, I do what I will not to do, I agree with the law that it is good. But now, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) nothing good dwells; for to will is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find. For the good that I will to do, I do not do; but the evil I will not to do, that I practice. Now if I do what I will not to do, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells in me."

Paul's words do not provide justification or permission to sin, as he previously mentioned that we should not persist in sin to receive more grace (Romans 6:1).

The apostle instead reflects on his own battle with sin, a sentiment that many believers can relate to.

His words capture the inner turmoil that frequently accompanies us on our pursuit of holiness.

Although Paul does not reveal the specifics of his struggle, his openness highlights the common challenge of combating sin that believers face.

This serves as a reminder that the journey to sanctification is not without errors or challenges.

God Desires For Us to Lead a Holy Life and is Ready to Forgive Us

While the Scriptures paint a vivid picture of the seriousness of sin and the internal strife it can provoke, they also offer solace and guidance.

1 John 1:9 extends a comforting promise:

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

This verse embodies the essence of repentance and the boundless forgiveness and restoration that awaits those who seek it.

We Are To Show Compassion and Help Each Other

Further, Jude 1:23 advocates for a spirit of empathy and compassion:

"Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives."

This directive underscores the importance of approaching fellow believers with understanding and grace, recognizing that we are all susceptible to sin's temptations.

In Matthew 18:21-35, it is emphasized that God's mercy towards us should be reflected in our treatment of others.

We should not engage in slander or gossip against fellow believers who have strayed into sin. Rather, we should pray for their restoration and actively seek to help them return to the right path, just as Jesus leaves the 99 to find the 1 lost sheep.

If we encounter such individuals, we should approach them with compassion and take necessary steps to guide them back to righteousness.

Reflection

Let's take a moment to confess any sin in our lives.

May we find joy in the promise of forgiveness and the unending grace that is bestowed upon us.

Let us walk this journey of holiness together, supporting one another with compassion and understanding, as we strive towards a life that pleases our Father in heaven.

May the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ be with you.