Thursday, December 12, 2024

SIN - TRANSGRESSION - INIQUITY

These words were used in David's psalm of repentance ...

I acknowledged my sin to You and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord. (Psalm 32:5)

All three communicate the same idea: a failure to obey God's law. 
However, upon closer examination, each term carries a slightly different meaning.

Sin is defined as 'missing the mark' ... 

It is doing the opposite of what is right (sin of commission) or failing to do something you know to be right (sin of omission). 'Sin' is the general term that describes the fallen nature of man ... For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)

Transgression refers to 'presumptuous sin' ... 

It is 'intentional' or 'willful' disobedience. When you knowingly run a stop sign, tell a lie, or blatantly disregard authority, you are considered a 'transgressor' ... Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. (Psalm 32:1)

Iniquity is a 'premeditated choice' ... 

This is deeply rooted sin that continues without repentance. Left unchecked, it leads to 'no fear of God' ... Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds. At morning’s light they carry it out because it is in their power to do it. (Micah 2:1)

There is an ominous warning for those who refuse to show penitence. They can develop a seared conscience that blocks the Holy Spirit's power to convict and the soul's ability to feel remorse (considered the 'unforgivable sin') ... God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things that ought not to be done. (Romans 1:28) 

Neglecting Christ's atoning sacrifice keeps you from being cleansed of 'sin, transgression, and iniquity'. He bore them for you. 



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