::SIN:: From the Pastor's desk!

SIN: AN IMMORAL ACT CONSIDERED TO BE A TRANSGRESSION AGAINST DIVINE LAW.

Text: Matthew 18:9  Matthew 5:29-30

Who causes us to sin? James 1:14-15 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.  Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

How sin enter the world? Romans 5:12 "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned" All humans are born in sin, sin meaning missing the mark of perfect obedience to God, which Adam and Eve transgressed. That is why Christ came to the earth and died to provide the ransom sacrifice to atone for our sins.

IS TEMPTATION SIN?
Temptation is not sin. If temptation were indeed sin, then Jesus would not have led a sinless life. But as the Bible says, Jesus was "tempted in all things," yet without sin ( Heb. 4:15).
Still temptation should not be taken lightly. That's because it is the gateway to sin. Temptation is often strongest when we are at our weakest. In fact, the longer we allow it to brew in our thoughts the more dangerous temptation becomes. Therefore, we must learn to recognize temptation and keep it in check.

WHAT'S SO TEMPTING?
Temptation is one of the enemy's most powerful "schemes" for misleading God's people ( Eph. 6:11, 16). It causes us to focus on the "passing pleasures" ( Heb. 11:25) of sin instead of the rich rewards of serving God with a pure heart.

Is God pleased with our sin? Romans 5: 8 "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (John 3:16) However, there is a distinction between committing a sin and repenting and being forgiven, as opposed to practicing sin willfully. (1 John 3:4-8)

How can we be free?  That means a total change of direction, away from the sins and temptations, and toward the forgiving grace of a loving God. If you have allowed lust to control your life, yield to God as the Holy Spirit convicts you of your sin. God will forgive and cleanse you physically, emotionally and spiritually, if you humbly come to Him (1 John 1:8, Romans 6:23).

THE WAY OUT
Temptation can be difficult to resist. But God has not left us as helpless victims of temptation. He has promised a "way of escape" ( 1 Cor. 10:13) to all who trust in Him.

SEE also>>

 What The Bible Says About Drinking Alcohol

 The Ten Commandment!

How to Overcome Obstacles to Positive Change!!!

 Overcoming Sin!

Prayer

Sin is like a Quick Sand

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