Part 1: What Is Sin? — More Than Just Bad Behavior
We often reduce sin to a list of bad actions—lying, stealing, hurting others, or violating moral rules. But biblically speaking, sin is much deeper than wrong behavior. At its core, sin is a rupture in relationship—between us and God, between us and others, and even within ourselves. It is rebellion, yes, but also disconnection. It is not just about what we do wrong, but why we do it—and what that reveals about the state of our hearts.
Missing the Mark
The Greek word most commonly translated as “sin” in the New Testament is hamartia, which means “to miss the mark.” Imagine an archer aiming for the bullseye but consistently falling short. That’s the picture of humanity: created to reflect God’s image and live in harmony with Him, yet constantly missing that perfect aim.
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23
Sin is falling short of God’s glory—not just breaking His laws, but failing to live up to His purpose and design for us.
Rebellion and Relational Ruin
The Bible also speaks of sin as lawlessness (1 John 3:4), a willful stepping outside of God’s boundaries. It is not just a misstep; it is an act of rebellion against the God who created us for love, trust, and obedience.
In Genesis 3, we see this rupture play out dramatically. Adam and Eve disobey God’s one command, and in that moment, sin enters the world—not just as an act, but as a condition. Their eyes are opened, but their innocence is lost. They feel shame, hide from God, and blame one another. What had been whole is now fractured.
Sin, then, is not merely what we do—it is a break in the relationship that defines who we are meant to be.
“Your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God…” — Isaiah 59:2
Not Just “Bad People”
It’s tempting to think of sin as something other people struggle with—those who are corrupt, immoral, or cruel. But Scripture makes it clear: sin is universal. It touches every heart, every life, every nation. It levels the playing field. No one is righteous on their own (Romans 3:10). Even our best intentions can be tainted by selfishness, pride, or fear.
This may sound bleak—but it’s also freeing. If sin is everyone’s problem, then God’s grace is everyone’s hope.
Key Scriptures
- Romans 3:23 – All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
- 1 John 3:4 – Everyone who sins breaks the law; in fact, sin is lawlessness.
- Genesis 3 – The Fall: where sin enters the human story.
Reflection Questions
- How have you understood sin in the past? Has it felt more like rule-breaking or relationship-breaking?
- In what ways can “missing the mark” describe your own experiences, even when your intentions were good?
- Why is it important to recognize that sin is a universal condition, not just the behavior of “bad people”?