WHAT IS SIN?

Sin is anything contrary to the will and law of God:  It is non-conformity to or transgression of the laws of God. 

The universe in which we live is under God’s law.  The planets move in precision. There is harmony, order and obedience.  In the spiritual realm also, God demands order and has therefore laid down spiritual laws which if obeyed will bring harmony and happiness.  

But, if disobeyed will bring discord and unhappiness.  Sin is failure to live up to that spiritual standard demanded by God.  However,  no man is capable of fulfilling all of God’s laws at all times in his own strength.  This is because He had declared that “All have sinned and come short of the glory of /God”;  that  “All flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth” (Genesis 6:12); that  “They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no not one.”  Isaiah the Prophet confessed “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6). 

The natural man may be gentle, respectful, and loyal; nevertheless, he lacks that love for God which is the fundamental requirement of the law.  Because man fails to meet God’s requirements, he is guilty and under condemnation.  And being guilty, he deserves punishment.