Talking about our sins and faults in detail is one of the core doctrines of Christianity, and plays an important role in understanding the essential problems of humanity and the need for salvation as a solution. The following explains the concept of sin and transgression, its consequences, and the process of reaching salvation.
1. Definition of sin and transgression
1) Definition of sin
- Meaning in the original : In Hebrew, sin is expressed as “hatat” (חԷטָאת) and in New Testament Greek as “hamartia” (ἁμαρτία), both meaning “to miss the mark.” This refers to actions or conditions that deviate from God’s will and standards.
- Biblical Definition : Sin includes all actions and thoughts that violate God's commands and are contrary to His character and nature. This applies in all categories: moral, spiritual, and ethical. For example, the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 list specific examples of sin.
2) Definition of fault
- Original Meaning : In Hebrew, transgression is expressed as “pesha” (פԶԼשԷׁע), and in Greek as “paraphthoma” (παράπτωμα), both meaning “rebellion” or “willful disobedience.” This refers to intentionally breaking God's law.
- Biblical definition : Transgression includes willful and willful sin. In the case of David's adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11), David's actions are an example of a clear violation of God's law.
2. Origin of sin and transgression
1) Original sin
- Adam and Eve : As recorded in Genesis Chapter 3, Adam and Eve disobeyed God in the Garden of Eden and ate the fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, the first sin of mankind. Because of this, all humans have a sinful nature from birth. Romans 5:12 says, “Just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin.”
2) Personal sin
- Individual Choices and Actions : Apart from original sin, each individual sins through his or her own choices and actions. James 1:14-15 says, “For every one is tempted, when he is drawn away and enticed by his own lust.”
3. Consequences of sin and transgression
1) Spiritual death
- Separation from God : Sin breaks the relationship between God and man. Ephesians 2:1 states that sin causes spiritual death, saying, “He hath quickened you, who were dead in trespasses and sins.”
- Eternal Punishment : Revelation 20:14-15 warns of eternal punishment for sin, that is, being cast into hell, the second death.
2) Moral corruption
- Ethical confusion : Sin corrupts the moral standards of individuals and society. This manifests itself in the form of corruption, violence and injustice.
3) physical death
- Coming of Death : In Genesis 3, God said to Adam, “For you are from dust, and to dust you will return,” indicating the coming of physical death as a result of sin.
4. The solution to sin and transgression: Salvation
1) The Ministry of Jesus Christ
- Atonement : Jesus Christ’s sacrifice on the cross is the final solution to sin and transgression. Hebrews 9:26 says, “Who once for all offered himself as a sacrifice to put away sin.”
- Redemption : Through the death and resurrection of Jesus, believers are freed from slavery to sin. Galatians 5:1 explains the meaning of redemption by saying, “For freedom Christ has set us free.”
2) Repentance and faith
- Repentance : It is essential to acknowledge sin and turn to God. In Acts 3:19 we are exhorted to “Repent and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out.”
- Faith : Believing in Jesus Christ as the Savior and following Him is the way to salvation. John 3:16 promises, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
3) The work of the Holy Spirit
- Rebirth : Through the work of the Holy Spirit, sinners are born again and become new creatures. In John 3:5, Jesus said, “Except one be born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
- Sanctification : With the help of the Holy Spirit, we gradually break free from the power of sin and live a holy life. Romans 8:13 says, “If by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.”
conclusion
Our sins and faults are serious problems that break our relationship with God and lead to spiritual, moral, and physical death. However, the path to salvation has been opened through the cross sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and salvation can be achieved through repentance and faith. In the process of being born again and sanctified through the work of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the power of sin, restore a deep relationship with God, and enjoy eternal life.