Scripture describes sin in several ways: sin is lawlessness, meaning violation of God’s law; all unrighteousness; and falling short of the glory of God. Knowing what is good without doing it is also called sin, as is acting contrary to faith. Sin is inherent in all people and leads to death, but God’s gift is eternal life in Christ.
What does the Bible say about this?
- Sin is lawlessness (1 John 3:4); all unrighteousness is sin (1 John 5:17).
- All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23); sin entered the world through one man, and death spread to all (Romans 5:12).
- Knowing the right thing to do without doing it is also called sin (James 4:17): sin includes inaction.
- Everything that does not proceed from faith is sin (Romans 14:23); in context, this concerns food and conscience.
The brief answer was prepared by the editorial team; the Scripture texts are from the Father’s Blessing Bible.
Key Scripture Passages
8 Bible Verses · Father’s Blessing Bible
1 John 3:4
Everyone who practices sin also practices lawlessness; and sin is lawlessness.
Romans 3:23
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
James 4:17
Therefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
1 John 5:17
All unrighteousness is sin, yet there is sin that does not lead to death.
Romans 14:23
But whoever has doubts is condemned if they eat, because their eating is not from faith; and everything that does not come from faith is sin.
Romans 5:12
Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to all people, because all sinned in him.
Psalm 51:3–4
3 For I acknowledge my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. 4 Against You, You alone, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so You are righteous in Your verdict and blameless in Your judgment.
Romans 6:23
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
