Weekly Devotional 7-23-18
Original Sin and the Sin Nature
“Original Sin” (Paraphrased from an article by Jack Kelly of Grace Thru Truth).
Original sin is a term primarily used by Roman Catholics. Most non-Catholics prefer the term sin nature, meaning that we’re all born with a predisposition toward sinful behavior. This doesn’t mean we’re in any way accountable for the sins of our fore-fathers. In fact, until we’re intellectually mature enough to understand what sin is, God does not hold even our own sins against us (Romans 7:1-14).
Most modern theologians, Catholic and Protestant alike, reject the notion that we’re in some way culpable for the sins of Adam and Eve. We’re only responsible for ourselves. That said, due to our sin nature there’s no one who can resist sinning. As Paul said, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
The “Sin Nature”
All of mankind inherited a propensity to sin from our first parents, a genetic flaw that prevents humans from living a sin free life, this is why Jesus said to Nicodemus, and indirectly to us, that man must be given a new nature, found in a new life. Consider John 3:3…5-6). “3Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God…..5I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” (End of Kelly Transcription).
As long as we are in the world we are subject to our old nature, but by the grace of God we escape its domination when we are born again from above. That is, when the Holy Spirit, heaven’s ambassador, regenerates in us new spiritual life.
When does regeneration occur in one’s life?
From God’s side regeneration occurs at His determined time, but from man’s side it occurs when he understands that he is a sinner, separated from God and in need of God’s mercy and grace. This of course is different for each person. When one is able to comprehend his separation from his creator. This is called the age of accountability. Children for instance are not sin free from birth, but their sins are not counted against them until they are able to understand what sin is, and that they are sinners. Nor are persons born with mental incapability. Christ’s righteousness is imputed to all such persons. Thanks be to God.
Sin must be dealt with and it has been. Jesus gave His life for mankind. He gave His life freely to pay the price of sin. However, not all persons are freely granted forgiveness. Those who are accountable must turn to Him for deliverance. As Paul and Silas informed the Philippian Jailor (Acts 16: 31) saying, “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved.” Amen!
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Transforming Power; The Work of God on Behalf of Man