Have you ever caught yourself pondering the nature of sin? What does the Bible mean when it uses the word sin.
In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word most commonly translated as “sin” is “חָטָא” (chata), which fundamentally means “to miss the mark” or “to go wrong.” In the New Testament, the Greek word translated as “sin” is “ἁμαρτία” (hamartia), which also carries the meaning of “missing the mark” or “erring.”
So, how would you define sin? In the biblical context, “sin” refers to any thought, word, deed, or omission that goes against God’s will and standards that misses the mark of God’s will.
Saint Augustine, a heavyweight in the realm of theology, had an intriguing take on sin. He proposed that sin undergoes three stages in our lives. Initially, we find ourselves playfully bargaining with morality, echoing the sentiment, “Lord, make me good, but not yet.” It’s a phase of procrastination where the appeal of immediate pleasures overshadows our quest for righteousness. As we mature, our plea transforms subtly to, “Lord, make me good, but not entirely.” Here lies the human dilemma: craving sanctity but clinging to our earthly desires. Finally, we reach a point of earnest surrender, asking simply, “Lord, make me good.” This progression reflects a journey from self-centeredness to a sincere yearning to follow God.
In today’s world, especially in the realm of politics, the concept of sin is not politically correct. Our politicians, those guardians of public trust, seem to exist in a realm where ‘sin’ is substituted with ‘mistake.’ They ‘misstep’ or ‘miscalculate.’ When caught, the cure is not Jesus, but usually rehab.
The most powerful lesson comes from Jesus Christ. Jesus didn’t shun sinners; he dined with them. He exemplified the challenging art of hating the sin but loving the sinner. In a world quick to cast stones, learning to separate the deed from the doer can pave the way for forgiveness and reconciliation, qualities ever-needed in our times.
As we see these different views of sin, it becomes clear that this concept is far more than a religious or moral construct. It’s a mirror reflecting our struggles, growth, and the ever-present battle between our spiritual aspirations and our baser instincts.
Yes, we all have sinned (Romans 3:23) and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23), but we can get forgiveness for our sins. However, we must remember that our forgiveness comes as we forgive others. (Matthew 6:14-15).
Lonnie Davis