Blunders, errors or slip ups are words associated with making a mistake. These missteps can be blamed on miscalculated, misguided or wrong actions. A common explanation for this occurrence is being amoral, not knowing right from wrong. Finding fault or judgment is often excused until the rules are made known to everyone.
Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness [ignoring God’s law by action or neglect or by tolerating wrongdoing—being unrestrained by His commands and His will], 1 John 3:4.
Meanwhile, the biblical term sin refers to an act of disobedience, rebellion or transgression. The basis for law in the Bible is the ten commandments. The first four detail how God expects individuals to respond, treat and worship the Lord. The final six set the ground rules for civil law. In the New Testament, Jesus summarizes these commandments into two brief guidelines. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and mind. Love your neighbor as yourself.
“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 And Jesus replied to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself [that is, unselfishly seek the best or higher good for others],’ Matthew 22:36-39.
According to one of Jesus’ disciples, a mistake becomes a sin when lawlessness is involved. The Bible serves as a moral code for life, a line in the sand to demarcate how far you can go. Boundaries are meant to keep you safe, far from sin. However, ignoring, neglecting or not enforcing biblical principles opens the door for sin to become a lifestyle. Therefore, the next time temptation dances, rolls or strolls into your life, don’t be mistaken about sin’s clear and present danger.
by Jay Mankus
