Human sin refers to the moral failing and rebellion against God that is unique to humanity, distinguishing humans from all other creation. It involves a volitional choice to disobey God's law, highlighting the inherent capacity for moral failure and separation from divine holiness (Romans 3:23, James 1:14-15). Illustrations often use contrasts with nature's fixed order or the recognition of sin as an alien element to human nature.
Man contains both good and evil elements that can be conquered but not destroyed in life.
As there is much beast and some devil in man, so is there some angel and some God in him. The beast and the devil may be conquered, but in this life never destroyed.
— Coleridge
Humans uniquely recognize sin as something not received from God, unlike all else.
"Have you any thing you did not receive from God?" inquired a teacher of his pupils. "No," said all the scholars but one. He replied, "Yes." — "What is that?" asked the teacher. "Sin," replied the boy.
Man alone can choose to disobey moral law, unlike nature's fixed order.
The sea cannot roll up the mountain, however furious its rags may become: it must lie in its own bed. Neither suns, stars, nor comets have power in themselves to sweep an inch out of their orbits. The mightiest animal of sea or land has no power to act contrary to the strong law of instinct. But man has the power to overstep the moral boundary of his being, to fly from his appointed orbit: he can deviate from truth, justice, benevolence, and piety. The great sun cannot say No to its Maker: a child may and does. Dr. Thomas.
Everything we make is available for free because of a generous community of supporters.
Donate