Is sin really serious?

Yes. But first we need to understand what the word ‘sin’ means. Many people toss the word around as if they get to define sin by their standards, not God’s. In other words, some people think that sin is anything they don’t like. For example, they may look disapprovingly at the way a person dresses, or not approve of the food or drink that someone chooses. In other words, they start judging people. But the Bible has is very clear is that sin is anything that separates man from God. That ranges from committing vile acts against others to becoming so self absorbed that you no longer recognize that you were created by the God who created the universe–the God who made man and woman so he could commune with them and let them experience his infinite love.

Sin causes this gulf between man and God and that, in turn, often causes a gulf between individuals too. Most recognize that infidelity causes great pain and breaks trust. Stealing from an employer is sin and in many cases has dire consequences. Even envy can cause a gulf to open up between another person.  Those behaviors and many more that break God’s laws are sin, and yes, that is both serious and dangerous.

You’ve probably heard of the 10 Commandments that God gave to his people, the Israelites, almost 4,000 years ago. They set a standard of God’s holiness that human beings are incapable of attaining. The Commandments point out how sinful human nature really is and why a Savior is required.

What is really serious is that unconfessed sin and failure to repent (turning from sinful ways) results in separation from any relationship with God. The Bible says,

The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 6:23 (NIV)

So the really Good News is that God has provided a way to overcome one’s sinful human nature. The solution is found by repenting and in having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and following Him.