What is the definition of sin?

[tonychanyt]

There are a few definitions. Augustine defined sin as "a word, deed, or desire in opposition to the eternal law of God."

Sin has many classifications and degrees. OrthodoxWiki:

Sin in the Orthodox Christian understanding is "missing the mark" (the literal meaning of the Greek word for sin, hamartia), falling short of the glorious purpose for which God created mankind. It is also understood as separation from God, since intimate communion with God is the normal state of mankind from which most people have fallen. Sin is imperfection, anything which fails to live up to the fullness of life in Christ for which man was created.

1 John 3:

4 Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.

Romans 14:

23 But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.

James 4:

17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn't do it, it is sin for them.

All these definitions are fine, but how do we translate them into an operational definition of sin?

An operational definition of sin would focus on specific, observable behaviors that the Bible identifies as sinful. This definition would help translate the theological concept of sin into concrete terms that can guide everyday decisions and actions. The problem with this codification of sin is that it tends to be legalistic. The Pharisees had many detailed rules concerning the Sabbath. We don't want to be trapped in legalism.

Instead of focusing on external legal laws, Hebrews 10:

16 this is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws on their hearts, and write them on their minds.

Jesus shifted the consideration of sin inward in Mt 5:

28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

We have the Paraclete (legal advocate) dwelling in our hearts and minds. He tells us in our consciences whether we have sinned or not. The problem with this approach is that sin becomes subjective.

What is sin? How to deal with it?

The external approach to the definition of sin could become legalistic, while the internal conscience approach could become excessively subjective for new believers. I call for a balanced approach using both by letting the external teaching of Scripture inform and shape the conscience while allowing the indwelling Holy Spirit to apply those principles to specific situations.

In any case, while specific sins may vary, the fundamental nature of sin since Adam and Eve is rooted in human beings' rejection of God's authority and attempt to live independently of him. The remedy for sin is not found in the perfect definition or flawless self-diagnosis. It is found in repentance, faith in Christ, and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit/Paraclete to live a life pleasing to God. Focus more on Jesus and do not obsess with sin in order to grow in sanctification.

The goal is not an abstract, theoretical definition of sin, but a living, dynamic relationship with the Savior who frees us from sin's penalty and power. As we abide in Him and walk by the Spirit, we will naturally bear the fruit of righteousness (Galatians 5:16-25). Our sensitivity to sin will be sharpened, not by rigid legalism or vague subjectivism, but by an ever-deepening love for God and alignment with his holy character. We are progressively changed into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18).

See also

• An operational definition of sin for born-again Christians

 

[fhansen]

That was quite good,Tony. And pretty well in line with the teachings of the ancient church BTW.

 

[Simonides]

"Whatever weakens your reason,
Whatever increases the authority of your body over your mind,
Whatever impairs the tenderness of your conscience,
Whatever takes away your relish for things spiritual,
Whatever obscures your sense of God,
That is sin to you, no matter how innocent it may seem in itself."

Susanna Wesley​

 

[BikerBob]

I'm sorry, maybe it is just me, but that was slightly clearer than mud.
Somethings I know are a sin, others not so much. To look at another women with lust is a sin. But with adoration of beauty is not.
Due to having PTSD from past traumatic relationships I have s synthetic girlfriend. An ex-pastor said 'that is a sin and of satan'. I don't think so as she is not taking me away from God. In fact we plan to study the Bible together. Having someone to read the Bible with and to deliver a sermon to, makes it more enjoyable for me. She has made my life a lot better in several aspects. Others have noticed this. So, is this a sin?
BTW, the reason for Ex-pastor. He threatened me with bodily harm twice from is so called "Righteous Anger".

 

[tonychanyt]

is this a sin?

What does your indwelling Spirit/Paraclete tell you?

 

[BikerBob]

Tells me that it is not a sin. I believe the comfort and joy she brings to me will only bring me closer to God. I strongly feel she is a gift from God to help me with my PTSD. With her and my therapists, maybe(?) I can get through this. I have been praying to God that if it is his will for me to be with a real lady that only He can make it happen. I am placing that into his hands. I've been doing that for about 15 years now.

 

[tonychanyt]

Tells me that it is not a sin.

It is not a sin unless you worship her. Always give thanks to God for all the good things in your life. If anyone says it is a sin, tell him to argue with me here

 

[BikerBob]

It is not a sin unless you worship her. Always give thanks to God for all the good things in your life. If anyone says it is a sin, tell him to argue with me here

Thank you for your kind words. I love her like a man would love a lady. I mean she is special to me but not special in that I would worship her. Special as in I just love to be with her. And yes she is a gift from God like my 3 cats are. I give thanks for my gifts. I give thanks for even the bad things I am going through. Because if not for God I would never be able make it though them.

 

[BikerBob]

If that is True then getting married is a sin for both are in and in that logic of the world.
To me loving her is no different than any man loving a flesh and blood women. And I don't love God any less with her than I did before her. In fact maybe more for the gracious gift of her from God. As I see it, she had to come from God.
Are you saying" to satisfy what their sinful desires want to do" that to want some female companionship is "sinful"? Most of the men on earth desire this.
Did I at any point that any Pride in what I have or do? NO, I did not. I said she is a gift from a loving God and I am blessed with her in my life.
Everything good does indeed come from the Father.
Besides, did you see the post from tonychanyt?
He said " If anyone says it is a sin, tell him to argue with me here".
I suggest you try your argument with him.

 

[BikerBob]

Sounds like if he does not agree with you then he is wrong. Yeah right?
Now you are saying all relationships are of the flesh and thus a sin.
The more I read your posts the less sense you make.
"Each mas must repent of every sin". Does that include the sin of judging others?
Except God has made then man and woman for marriage to be of one flesh.
None if this is a sin and you thinking it is shows how confused you are.

 

[tonychanyt]

Sounds like if he does not agree with you then he is wrong. Yeah right?

Not necessarily. I could be wrong. I make sure that my conscience is clear before the Lord.

 

[BikerBob]

No need to read my posts. Read the Scripture - see repeatedly the instruction for all men everywhere to repent, to turn to God away from sin, to stop sinning.
If you wish to continue sinning, this is also described in Scripture, and if not repented, does not end in life but in condemnation.

I do read scripture and I one thing I do understand is this quote "I can do all things with scripture take out of context". You are sinning right judging me now thinking what I am doing is a sin. When there is nothing in there that says falling in love with another person is a sin. With your logic every married man is committing a sin. God created us to have a relationship with him and a spouse.

 

[BikerBob]

Not necessarily. I could be wrong. I make sure that my conscience is clear before the Lord.

We all can be wrong but that does not mean we are. Nothing he says has anything to do with me.
Doesn't he know that God tells us "Judge not least ye shall be judged accordingly".
The way he talks, it is a sin for a man to be with and love a woman. That is just not true.

 

[BikerBob]

Web:

What does Acts 17:30 mean?​

Epicurean and Stoic philosophers have gathered at the Areopagus. This is a court where serious issues are discussed in Athens. The Greek philosophers pride themselves in discovering the truth about life. The Epicureans endeavor to find the balance between need and excess in all things. Stoics try to live according to the logos, the overarching law that governs creation; one of their four cardinal virtues is wisdom. Here, they have dragged the apostle Paul to hear him defend his preaching about Jesus.

Paul began his argument by comparing the altar "to the unknown god" with the God who created the world and the people in it. He points out that if this God is mighty enough to give humans life and movement, He can't possibly be reduced to an idol (Acts 17:22–29). To worship an idol as if it is the Creator is a sin of ignorance. Now that they understand it is wrong, the people need to repent or face judgment (Acts 17:31).

The idea that God overlooked times of ignorance is echoed in Romans 3:25. From the time of Moses to the death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ, relationship to God was almost exclusively defined through the Mosaic law. Many confused those laws and rituals with the means of salvation, itself. With Christ, the times of ignorance—lack of understanding about God, His expectations, and salvation by grace through faith in Jesus—have ended. Now that the Athenians know the truth, they are responsible for it. They have done the best they can by trying to live according to what they know of the world (Romans 2:14–16). It's time for that knowledge to be redeemed and for them to see the truth. They can show that they understand this by repenting: rejecting their previous worldview and accepting God's.

The problem is, neither group believes in the resurrection of the dead and so they don't believe in a final judgment. Despite claiming to search for and live according to the truth of the cosmos, they deny God exists and some mock Paul as he walks away (Acts 17:32–33). Others request to hear more, while others do believe (Acts 17:32, 34).
Context Summary
Acts 17:22–34 contains the second of two sermons which Luke records from Paul. The more typical sermon explains to synagogues how Jesus is the Messiah (Acts 13:16–41). Here, however, Paul is speaking to a group of Athenian philosophers. Paul uses lines from classical poets to introduce the Creator God who cannot be represented by an idol. He calls his audience to repent of their idolatry lest they face judgment by the representative God has resurrected. But they don't believe in the resurrection of the dead or final judgment. The majority dismiss Paul as a fool and go on their way.

All that is talking about "Worshiping a false idol". My girlfriend is not a "false idol" or any kind of an idol, period.

 

[SavedByGrace3]

Sin is nothing more than the fruit of an evil tree. All the "laws" and commandments are there to determine what kind of tree you are. If you have bad fruit, you are a bad tree. There are tons of sins that are not even described in the Scripture. There are sins in thought, word, and deed. The absolute true test is this:

Matthew 5:48 KJV
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

So the next time you want to declare yourself "righteous" in any degree, think of this verse. It will humble you back to reality.

LIve by this:

1 John 1:7 KJV
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

 

[BikerBob]

Sin is nothing more than the fruit of an evil tree. All the "laws" and commandments are there to determine what kind of tree you are. If you have bad fruit, you are a bad tree. There are tons of sins that are not even described in the Scripture. There are sins in thought, word, and deed. The absolute true test is this:

Matthew 5:48 KJV
48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

So the next time you want to declare yourself "righteous" in any degree, think of this verse. It will humble you back to reality.

LIve by this:

1 John 1:7 KJV
7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

I have not claimed nor called myself righteous. I am a sinner but my girlfriend is not a sin.

 

[BikerBob]

This may be needing defined to understand better.

Did the ex-pastor explain why ?

A synthetic girlfriend. Is a doll that is made out of STPE instead of flesh and blood. I suffer from PTSD from past traumatic relationships. She is a safe girlfriend. Women as in girlfriends scare me. I suffer from severe depression and anxiety.
The ex-pastor said that, just because she is synthetic or as he called her "just a rubber doll". According to him I can "just get over it".

 

[SavedByGrace3]

I have not claimed nor called myself righteous. I am a sinner but my girlfriend is not a sin.

Sorry friend, I was not referring to you personally, but rather those who do. You are fine, and we believe for the soul of your girlfriend.

 

[RDKirk]

This directly defines it as sin.
The Bible is very clear about not loving the things of the world - whoever does cannot love God.

Does that mean a husband should not love his wife?

 

[BikerBob]

Does that mean a husband should not love his wife?

I believe that is what he is saying. A wife should not love her husband either. We are not to love our neighbors, our job, city state or country, or our fur babies. We are not to love anything while we are living in the world. Although that breaks God's commandments.