Series:            Systematic Theology Part 2
Title:               Sin
Purpose:        To examine what sin is and where did it come from.
Date:               March 9, 2025
  
I.                The definition of sin
A.    Definition - sin is any failure to conform to the moral law of God in action, attitude, or nature.
B.    Sin is not just selfishness because
C.    Sin is always directly opposite to all that is good in the character of God
 
II.              The origin of sin
A.    God did not sin nor can He be blamed for sin - Deuteronomy 32:4 “He does no wrong”; James 1:13 “He never tempts anyone”
B.    Angels and man sinned, both by a willful, voluntary choice
C.    However, there is NOT an eternally existent evil power competing with God
D.    God never sins but He always accomplishes His purpose in spite of sin that others commit - Ephesians 1:11 “makes everything work out according to His plan”; Daniel 4:35 “He does what He pleases”
E.     Human sin in the Garden
 
III.            The doctrine of inherited sin
A.    Inherited guilt:  We are counted guilty because of Adam’s sin
B.    Inherited corruption:  We have inherited a sinful nature because of Adam’s sin
 
IV.            Actual sins in our lives
A.    All people are sinful before God
B.    Does our ability limit our responsibility?
C.    Are infants guilty before they commit actual sins?
D.    Are there degrees of sin?
E.     What happens when a Christian sins?
F.     What is the unpardonable sin?
 
V.              The punishment of sin
A.    Primary reason is that God’s righteousness demands it
B.    Romans 3:25 - “all for short of God’s glorious standard”
C.    Romans 3:26 - “He Himself is fair and just”