What Is Sin?

Are some sins worse than others?

Yes, for example, the Bible says that the men of ancient Sodom were "wicked, gross sinners" whose sins was "very heavy."  (Genesis 13:13; 18:20)  Consider these three factors that determine the gravity, or weight, of sin. 

1. Severity.  The Bible warns us to avoid such serious sins as sexual immorality, idolatry, stealing, drunkenness, extortion, murder, and spiritism.  (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Revelation 21:8) The Bible contrasts these with thoughtless, unintentional sins, for example, words or actions that hurt others. (Proverbs 12:18; Ephesians 4:31, 32)  Nevertheless, the Bible encourages us not to minimize any sins, since they can lead to more serious violations of God's laws. -Matthew 5:27, 28.

2 Motive.  Some sins are committed in ignorance of what God requires.  (Acts 17:30; 1 Timothy 1:13) While not excusing such sins, the Bible distinguishes them from sins that involve willfully breaking God's laws.  (Numbers 15:30, 31)  Willful sins come from a "wicked heart."-Jeremiah 16:12.

3. Frequency.  The Bible also makes a distinction between a single sin and a practice of sin over an extended period.  (1 John  3:4-8) Those who "practice sin willfully," even after learning how to do what is right, receive God's adverse judgment. -Hebrews 10:26, 27. 

Those guilty of serious sin can feel overwhelmed by the weight of their mistakes.  For instance, King David wrote:  "My errors loom over my head; like a heavy burden, they are too much for me to bear."  (Psalm 38:4) Yet the Bible offers this hope:  "Let the wicked man have his way and the evil man his thoughts, let him return to Jehovah, who will have mercy on him, to our God, for he will forgive in a large way." -Isaiah 55:7

Next time:What Is the Unforgivable Sin?/ The Bible's answer

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