Question 16: What is Sin?

04.27.25-05.02.25|You Asked For It Series

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LISTEN: Romans 5

Question:What is sin?

Answer: Sin is missing the mark for which we were created, disobeying God and rebelling against his will.

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned. Romans 5:12

Paul identifies man’s disobedience as the moment sin entered history, bringing with it the devastating consequence of death (see Genesis 3). The Greek word for sin in the Bible—”hamartia”—literally means “to miss the mark.” Sin is not merely breaking God’s rules; it is falling short of God’s purpose for humanity. Sin is fundamentally relational—a turning away from the relationship with God. Adam and Eve’s rebellion involved a rejection of God’s loving boundaries and a desire to place themselves in God’s position. This disobedience fractured humanity’s relationship with God, each other and creation itself, introducing death where life was meant to flourish.

So, sin isn’t only about external behaviors; it’s about a heart that has turned from God. When we sin, we’re distorting the life our Creator intended, choosing temporary pleasure or self-determination over trusting his wisdom and love. This perspective helps us see that salvation is forgiveness for wrong actions and restoration of a broken relationship. It explains why even seemingly “small” sins matter—each act of disobedience represents a relational break with our loving Father. Recognizing sin as relational rebellion helps us understand our deepest problem and appreciate God’s remedy through Jesus, who came to restore what was broken in the Garden. Faith in Jesus reconciles us to God and restores us to our created purpose.

TODAY: Consider areas where you might be “missing the mark.” Rather than focusing only on outward behavior, examine attitudes of independence, self-reliance or distrust toward God. Confess these as sin, thanking God for his forgiveness through Jesus. Ask him to help you walk in renewed trust and obedience today.