In Christian circles, sin is mostly taught in terms of breaking the commandments of the Lord. That is, doing a bad thing you know you ought not to do.
Well, that’s correct but it’s only one side of the coin.
James helps us to appreciate the other side of sin, a subtle one. He writes: If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them (James 4:17). When, we deduce, you know the right/ good thing you are expected to do but fail to do it then you have sinned.
Sin is not only doing what you are not supposed to do, it is also not doing what you ought to do.
Therefore, as we talk about acts of commission let’s not forget the acts of omission.
You know going to church or attending a Bible study is good. If you chose not to for no apparent reason you have sinned.
The Holy Spirit has prompted you to talk to a friend or a colleague about Jesus and you assume. That’s a sin for you.
A practical need that requires your input (financially or otherwise) is presented before you and you can do something about it but look the other way. That is a sin.
There are many examples but the bottom line is, anytime you fail to do an obviously good/ right thing or what God puts in your heart to do you have sinned. And you are as guilty as another person who blatantly disobeys God’s commandments.
As you grow in your most precious faith and increasingly say no to evil, may you also learn to say yes quickly to the good things God is calling you to.
What good things do you feel God is leading you to do this season? If you don’t mind let me know in the comments below.
Taking notes.
Thank you.
Nice! Thank you for reading through.
Thank you for the reminder.
You are most welcome Steve. Thank you for reading through.