byWhat is sin? It’s simply the transgression of the law. So, if there is no law, then definitely, there is no sin. But unfortunately, there is the law of sin and death, stated clearly in scripture (see Romans 8:2). Even aside from this law, there are laws in every country on this Earth. Because everyone, born of a woman, came to meet the law of sin and death, you’ll realise that children don’t really need to be taught the difference between good and evil before they start manifesting it. This world is under the rulership of the evil one (see 2 Corinthians 4:4). So, many of the structures and systems in the world are built in a way to suit his liking. However, the church must arise to change this. Today, I want us to look at three scriptures from 1 John 1:8-10, which talk deeply about sin and the believer. Let’s delve deeper.
Verse 8
[8] “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”
1 John 1:8 (NKJV)
The verse above is one of the most controversial scriptures in Christianity today. Some Biblical scholars think that this verse, in comparison to others that speak of the believer’s identity in Christ, is somehow contradictory. For example, some argue that since each believer is now the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (see 2 Corinthians 5:21), it means we don’t have anything to do with sin. But let’s take a critical look at 1 John 1:8 well.
Scripture says that if we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. Wait! Who is the we referring to? Believers in Christ, right? So, from this, all believers have “sin”.
Scripture doesn’t say that all believers are living in sin. No! Sin is being viewed from a “possessive” substance here. So, what is the evidence that each believer has “sin”? I’t simple. Once you are living inside a body subject to fleshly lusts, you have “sin.” In other words, you may not have sin inside you as a Christian (because your inner man is saved and renewed by the Spirit), but sin is close to you because of the presence of your sinful flesh, which can be triggered to make you do wrong things when you’re tempted. Get this well, so that you’ll not deceive yourself into thinking that you are stormproof to temptation.
Verse 9
[9] “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
1 John 1:9 (NKJV)
Now that you know that you have sin, traced to your sinful flesh, it is time to take action. There comes 1 John 1:9. Although God has saved you and delivered you from all forms of unrighteousness, He also knows that spiritual transformation of the soul takes time. As such, many believers are prone to submit to their fleshly desires from time to time, especially when they are unable to resist temptation. Imagine the number of Christians, including some preachers, who are battling with sins like pornography consumption, gambling, fraud and other evil things. Is God happy about what these people are doing? Certainly not. However, He knew such things would come, and that is why He has made a provisional way for every Christian who falls to temptation to get back on track.
According to 1 John 1:9, the Bible tells us that “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Wait a minute. Consider the word “if” at the beginning of the scripture. Whenever it is used, it refers to a condition. But when “when” is used, it means what is about to be said will definitely happen, right? So, God’s Word is saying that there is no license in grace for a believer to sin. However, just in case it happens and we confess it, God is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. In other words, don’t think God will disown you when you recognise and confess your fault to Him. He will forgive you and will help you back on your feet.
Verse 10
“If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.”
1 John 1:10 (NKJV)
Well, 1 John 1:10 is also another scripture many people find controversial. But it’s not that strange to interpret. Apostle John used the word “sinned” in the verse, not “sin.” So, here’s the thing. Every believer used to live in sin before they got saved. Anybody who says they are so holy that they don’t remember doing something wrong and hence salvation isn’t essential is a liar. Don’t believe the person. Such a person makes God a liar by saying that He didn’t need to send Jesus. Beware of people who twist the gospel.
The Lord is with you.
