We never sin for free. There is always a cost. And counting that cost can give a better picture of why we need to resist the temptation to sin. Let’s start with What is?
SIN
A sin is an immoral act considered to be a transgression against divine law. The Bible describes sin as an act of offense against God by despising his persons and Christian biblical law. It is an evil human act, which violates the rational nature of man as well as God’s nature and his eternal law.
How did sin begin?
The first man, Adam, sinned, and his transgression spiraled mankind into sin, but this was not sin’s origin. Ezekiel 28:13-15 speaks figuratively of Satan, who was originally created without flaw, as all things created by God were. Verse 15 gives us a hint as to the origin of sin: “You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you.” Isaiah 14:12-14 further indicates that Lucifer sinned in his pride and his coveting of God’s throne. When he rebelled against God, Satan was ejected from heaven. God is not the author of sin (James 1:13). Sin originated with the creature, not the Creator.
Do Christians sin?
Before exploring whether or not Christians sin, let’s define a couple of terms, the biblical definition of a “Christian” is one who is a Christ-follower, a disciple of Jesus (Acts 11:26), a person who has responded to the conviction of the Holy Spirit (John 6:44) by putting his or her whole faith in the finished work of Christ for salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). A Christian is NOT someone who has ascribed to a particular set of religious beliefs or practices, joined a church, prayed a prayer, or participated in certain sacraments or rituals.
When we come to Christ by faith and trust Him to forgive and cleanse us of all our sin, we are in that moment born again (John 3:3). That new birth of the spirit results in a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). God gives the repentant sinner a new heart that is now turned toward obeying and pleasing Him rather than self.
Each battle with temptation is won or lost based upon how fully we are surrendered to the control of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:16–17).
The book of 1 John was written to Christians. The apostle says, “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8–9). It is clear from this passage that even those who have been born again and redeemed by the blood of Jesus will still sin. Through thought, attitude, or action, we will “grieve” and “quench” the Holy Spirit at times. But this passage also reassures us that God offers continual, ongoing grace whenever we agree with Him about our sin and ask for His cleansing. When we are born again, our natures change, and we cannot continue in sin. Christ not only erases our past sin; He also transforms our hearts so that we no longer desire it.
We cannot be followers of Christ and followers of sin at the same time. They are going in opposite directions Romans 12:2 instructs, “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Renewal can take some time, but it is a process that produces a change of behavior.
When we become Christians, it may be hard at first discerning what is right and what is wrong. If you have any doubt whether something is a sin or not, then don’t do it, especially if it will result in someone having less faith because of your actions.
The Holy Spirit Can Help
The Holy Spirit teaches, leads us to understand the truth, guides us so that we can be cleansed of sin, remember things that we have learned, etc. (John 16:8) When we sin the Holy Spirit will make us feel uncomfortable about what we have done (conviction), as a result, we should rush to confess, and ask for God’s forgiveness.
Consequences of sin
The consequence of sin is death, but “the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23), this not only refers to physical death, but to eternal separation from God (Isaiah 59:2). Sin will cause a divide between us and God. Hampering your relationship and causing us to be stagnant spiritually. This isn’t good for your spiritual, physical, emotional, and mental well-being. In the long run, we die a spiritual death when we are cut off from the cross
Retrace your steps
Whenever the Holy Spirit convicts you of sin, repent and retrace your steps. Restitute where possible and believe that your sins have been forgiven and wiped off through the blood of Jesus. Do not wallow in guilt or become weary even if you fall back into the sin, rather keep doing the honest work of retracing yourself and evaluating your actions. Your righteousness is in Christ Jesus so all you have to do is reach out to the Holy Spirit for help
What must I do to be saved?
Accept the Lord Jesus into your life as your Lord and personal Savior, believe he died on the cross for you, confess and repent of all your sins.