Believers Struggle With A Sin Nature

Understand that believers, while sinless in Christ, still face the challenge of sin in their daily lives, refuting the notion of sinless perfection.

The believer is sinless in His position in Christ, and has a new nature (2 Corinthians 5:21). The believer is called to a life of holiness, not sin, and to yield Himself as a slave of righteousness (Romans 6; 12:1-2). The believer is urged to yield to the Spirit, not the flesh (Galatians 5). He is called on to walk worthy of His sinless position in Christ (e.g., Ephesians 4:1; Colossians 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 2:12). He is called on to put off the old man, and to put on the new man (Ephesians 4:22-24).

Further, ongoing, unrepentant sin is inconsistent with the life of a true believer (1 John 3), and indicates one was never a child of God to begin with.

The purpose of the following, however, is specifically to refute the lies of some who claim they walk in sinless perfection, never needing to confess any sin to God, and who seek to condemn to hell, anyone who admits to as much as a single sin during his lifetime.

Such a view is completely inconsistent with everything we see in the entire Bible. Such a view actually harbors and ignores unconfessed sin in one's life, seeking rather to justify it as if it were not sin at all. This results in unholy living, and discourages anyone who would confess their sins, to disparage of the idea that they even believe in God at all.

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[next]Romans

The Epistle to the Romans, penned by the Apostle Paul, delves deeply into themes such as the human condition, sin, grace, and sanctification. Paul articulates the ongoing battle believers engage with their sin nature, even after embracing faith in Christ. This struggle not only challenges but also underscores the Gospel's transformative influence and the Holy Spirit's role in the life of believers. Below, we explore key passages that directly address or hint at this struggle:

Romans 6:11-14 (ESV): 

"So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus."

Paul encourages believers to view themselves as dead to sin but alive to God through Jesus Christ. He advises against allowing sin to dominate their mortal bodies to obey its desires. Instead, he suggests offering themselves to God as tools for righteousness. This advice acknowledges the ongoing conflict against sin for believers.

Romans 6:19 (ESV): 

"I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once presented your members as slaves to impurity and to lawlessness leading to more lawlessness, so now present your members as slaves to righteousness leading to sanctification."

Paul employs the analogy of slavery to impurity versus righteousness, highlighting the transformative journey of believers. This transformation involves a conscious effort to redirect one's actions towards righteousness, signifying the battle against sin.

Romans 7:15-25 (ESV): 

"For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate."

In this passage, Paul describes the internal conflict of a believer, caught between the desire to do good and the persistent presence of sin. This vivid description showcases the believer's struggle with their sinful nature.

Romans 8:5-13 (ESV): 

"For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit."

Paul contrasts life driven by fleshly desires with a life guided by the Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of setting one's focus on spiritual matters, underlining the conflict believers face against their sinful tendencies.

Romans 8:23 (ESV): 

"And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies."

Even as believers look forward to the redemption of their bodies, they experience an inward yearning. This longing reflects the tension between their already redeemed spirit and their yet-to-be redeemed body, highlighting the struggle with sin and anticipation for complete redemption.

Romans 12:1-2 (ESV): 

"I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship."

Paul calls believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices, urging them not to conform to worldly patterns but to pursue transformation and mind renewal. This appeal stresses the active resistance against sin and the pursuit of righteousness.

Romans 13:12-14 (ESV): 

"Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy."

Here, Paul advises believers to discard the deeds of darkness in favor of living in the light. He advocates for decency and dressing in the Lord Jesus Christ, cautioning against making provisions for the flesh's desires. This guidance acknowledges the existence of sinful desires and the necessity of actively combating them.

Each passage, in its unique way, sheds light on the reality that believers, while justified and undergoing sanctification, continue to confront sin within themselves. The struggle against sin is intrinsic to the Christian experience but also serves as a contrast to the grace of God, the Holy Spirit's empowerment, and the hope for full redemption. This ongoing conflict not only reminds us of our reliance on divine grace but also calls us to live in a manner that mirrors our new identity in Christ.[/next]

[next]1 Corinthians

1. Divisions and Quarrels

“I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. For it has been reported to me by Chloe's people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. What I mean is that each one of you says, ‘I follow Paul,’ or ‘I follow Apollos,’ or ‘I follow Cephas,’ or ‘I follow Christ.’ Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians 1:10-13, ESV)

Paul begins his letter by tackling the divisions within the Corinthian church directly. This opening critique sets the stage for a deeper examination of how their allegiance to human leaders over Christ Himself was not just a sign of disunity but a manifestation of their fleshly nature. This division, rooted in carnal preferences and personality cults, starkly contrasts with the unity and mind of Christ they were called to embody.

2. Worldly Wisdom vs. Spiritual Wisdom

“The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ. I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready, for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?” (1 Corinthians 2:14, 3:1-3, ESV)

Here, Paul distinguishes between the wisdom accessible to those led by the Spirit and the wisdom of the world, critiquing the Corinthians for their failure to mature spiritually. Their jealousy and quarrels are evidence of their fleshly nature, highlighting a critical issue: despite their conversion, they were yet to fully embrace the transformative power of the Spirit, remaining ensnared in worldly perspectives and values.

3. Sexual Immorality

“It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not tolerated even among pagans, for a man has his father's wife. And you are arrogant! Ought you not rather to mourn? Let him who has done this be removed from among you... Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 5:1-2, 6:19-20, ESV)

Paul addresses a shocking instance of sexual immorality within the Corinthian church, marking a stark departure from holiness. His rebuke extends beyond the act itself to criticize the community's response—or lack thereof—underscored by pride rather than mourning over sin. This passage serves as a poignant reminder of the believer's call to purity, emphasizing the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and the importance of glorifying God through our physical bodies.

These examples from 1 Corinthians provide clear evidence of the believers' ongoing struggle with sin, emphasizing the need for continual growth and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Paul's instructions are not merely corrective but serve as an invitation to a life transformed by the gospel, pointing to the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice and the power of the Holy Spirit to enable us to live in a way that glorifies God, despite the presence of our sin nature.[/next]

[next]2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians 2:3-11 (ESV): 

"And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all. For I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you. But if anyone has caused pain, he has caused it not to me, but in some measure—not to put it too severely—to all of you. For such a one, this punishment by the majority is enough, so you should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. So I beg you to reaffirm your love for him. For this is why I wrote, that I might test you and know whether you are obedient in everything. Anyone whom you forgive, I also forgive. Indeed, what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, has been for your sake in the presence of Christ, so that we would not be outwitted by Satan; for we are not ignorant of his designs."

Paul discusses a specific individual in the Corinthian church who had sinned and underwent discipline. This reflects the presence of sin among believers and the necessity of addressing it within the church community. It highlights the struggle with sin that persists even among the faithful.

2 Corinthians 3:3-6 (ESV): 

"And you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. Such is the confidence that we have through Christ toward God. Not that we are sufficient in ourselves to claim anything as coming from us, but our sufficiency is from God, who has made us sufficient to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life."

Paul contrasts the letter of the law with the Spirit, highlighting believers' reliance on the Spirit for righteousness. This acknowledges the inadequacy of adhering to the law on their own, indirectly pointing to the struggle with the old nature.

2 Corinthians 5:20-21 (ESV): 

"Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."

Paul urgently appeals to the Corinthians to be reconciled to God, suggesting some were not fully living out the gospel. This call underscores the battle with the old nature and the need for a deeper embrace of their identity in Christ.

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (ESV): 

"Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain. For he says, 'In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.' Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

Following his appeal, Paul warns against receiving God's grace in vain, indicating a risk of unchanged lives despite the gospel. This highlights the struggle to integrate faith into daily living and the transformative work of the gospel.

2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 (ESV): 

"Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, 'I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.' Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."

Paul urges believers to separate from unrighteousness and cleanse themselves. This call to purity underlines the ongoing battle against compromising with sin and the effort to align with their identity in Christ.

2 Corinthians 7:10 (ESV): 

"For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death."

Godly grief leads to true repentance, pointing to the transformative power of sincere sorrow over sin. Paul differentiates between the sorrow that God uses to bring us closer to Him—leading to life-changing repentance—and the kind of sorrow that is devoid of hope and leads to spiritual death. This distinction underscores the importance of allowing our convictions to lead us back to God, not into despair.

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 (ESV): 

"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,"

The battle against sinful thoughts is waged with divine power, not human strength. Paul emphasizes the spiritual nature of our conflict against sin and the need for divine empowerment to overcome the fortresses of human reasoning and pride. Taking every thought captive to Christ is crucial in maintaining a mind focused on God's truth and righteousness.

2 Corinthians 11:3 (ESV): 

"But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ."

Vulnerability to deception can lead believers away from their steadfast devotion to Christ. Paul uses the imagery of Eve's deception to caution the Corinthians against being misled by false teachings and the subtleties of sin. This serves as a reminder to remain vigilant and anchored in the truth of the gospel to prevent our minds from being corrupted.

2 Corinthians 11:18-20 (ESV): 

"For since many boast according to the flesh, I too will boast a little. For you gladly bear with fools, being wise yourselves! For you bear it if someone makes slaves of you, or devours you, or takes advantage of you, or puts on airs, or strikes you in the face."

The susceptibility to valuing worldly accolades over godly character reveals a misplaced emphasis on human achievement. Paul's ironic tone criticizes the Corinthians' willingness to endure mistreatment from those who boast in their fleshly accomplishments, challenging them to reconsider their values and the influence of false apostles.

2 Corinthians 12:11-13 (ESV): 

"I have been a fool! You forced me into it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these super-apostles, even though I am nothing. The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works."

Evaluating spiritual leadership requires discernment between genuine apostolic authority and self-promotion. Paul's defense of his ministry contrasts the humility and suffering that characterized his apostolic work with the boasting of the so-called "super-apostles." This comparison urges believers to recognize and value spiritual leadership that is marked by Christ-like humility and the evidence of God's power.

2 Corinthians 12:20-21 (ESV): 

"For I fear that perhaps when I come I may find you not as I wish, and that you may find me not as you wish—that perhaps there may be quarreling, jealousy, anger, hostility, slander, gossip, conceit, and disorder. I fear that when I come again my God may humble me before you, and I may have to mourn over many who have sinned earlier and have not repented of the impurity, sexual immorality, and sensuality that they have practiced."

Confronting sinful behaviors is essential for community health and spiritual growth. Paul expresses concern that he might find continued sinful behavior among the Corinthians, indicating the persistent struggle against yielding to the flesh. His desire for their repentance and purification underscores the need for a community committed to holiness and the transformative power of the gospel.

2 Corinthians 13:5 (ESV): 

"Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realize this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you fail to meet the test!"

The necessity of self-examination is a critical aspect of spiritual maturity. Paul challenges the Corinthians to reflect on their faith and conduct to ensure they are truly living in alignment with the gospel. This call to introspection serves as a reminder of the continuous need to assess our spiritual state and realign ourselves with Christ's teachings and presence in our lives.[/next]

[next]Galatians

In the book of Galatians, Paul vividly portrays the reality that believers continue to grapple with a sin nature even after coming to faith in Christ. This ongoing struggle is evident through direct admonitions, contrasting the works of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit, and the call for believers to live by the Spirit, thereby resisting the inclinations of the flesh. Here, we'll explore these instances, drawing attention to how they collectively underscore the persistent tension between the Spirit and the flesh in a believer's life.

Galatians 1:6-7 (ESV): 

"I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel— not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ."

Insight: Paul expresses deep concern over the Galatians' swift departure from the gospel of grace towards a different gospel, highlighting the susceptibility of believers to be led astray from the truth. This vulnerability indicates an ongoing battle with the flesh, which includes the temptation to revert to self-reliance and legalism.

Galatians 2:11-14 (ESV): 

"But when Cephas came to Antioch, I opposed him to his face, because he stood condemned. For before certain men came from James, he was eating with the Gentiles; but when they came he drew back and separated himself, fearing the circumcision party. And the rest of the Jews acted hypocritically along with him, so that even Barnabas was led astray by their hypocrisy."

Insight: Peter's inconsistency and fear of criticism from the circumcision group reveal how even the most steadfast believers can succumb to the pressure of pleasing others over God. This account underscores the internal conflict within believers, as they navigate the tension between the fear of man and the conviction of the gospel.

Galatians 2:20-21 (ESV): 

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God, for if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose."

This passage not only illustrates the believer's identification with Christ's death and resurrection but also the temptation to return to a works-based righteousness. Paul's declaration underscores the continuous need for faith in Christ's sufficiency, as opposed to succumbing to the flesh's inclination towards self-justification.

Galatians 3:3 (ESV): 

"Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?"

This rhetorical question challenges the Galatians' shift from reliance on the Spirit to self-effort ("the flesh"). It reveals a tendency among believers to revert to self-reliance in sanctification, indicating an internal struggle with the sin nature that tempts them away from dependence on the Spirit.

Galatians 4:9-10 (ESV): 

"But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? You observe days and months and seasons and years!"

Here, Paul addresses the Galatians' regression into observing Old Testament laws and festivals as means of securing favor with God, pointing to a struggle within believers to find security in visible, tangible acts of righteousness rather than in the grace of Christ alone.

Galatians 5:16-17 (ESV): 

"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do."

This passage explicitly outlines the conflict between the Spirit and the flesh within a believer. The command to "walk by the Spirit" acknowledges the presence and power of the flesh's desires, urging believers to a life of continual reliance on the Spirit to overcome these inclinations.

Galatians 5:19-21 (ESV): 

"Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

By listing the works of the flesh, Paul not only identifies the behaviors that are incompatible with the kingdom of God but also implicitly acknowledges their potential presence in the lives of believers. This serves as a warning and a call to vigilance.

Galatians 5:24-25 (ESV) states, 

"And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit."

The phrase "have crucified the flesh" signifies a decisive action against the sin nature through union with Christ. However, the exhortation to "keep in step with the Spirit" recognizes the need for continuous action in living out this reality, reflecting the ongoing struggle against the flesh.

Galatians 6:1 (ESV) reads, 

"Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted."

This instruction to help restore those overtaken in sin, while guarding against temptation, underscores the reality of believers' susceptibility to sin and the necessity of mutual support and vigilance in the community of faith.

Galatians 6:12-13 (ESV) notes, 

"It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh who would force you to be circumcised, and only in order that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. For even those who are circumcised do not themselves keep the law, but they desire to have you circumcised that they may boast in your flesh."

This passage highlights the pressure exerted by some within the Christian community to conform to external religious practices as a means of righteousness. It reflects the ongoing temptation to seek approval through outward conformity, rather than through the inward transformation wrought by the Spirit.

These passages from Galatians collectively emphasize that while believers are fundamentally transformed by their union with Christ, they continue to face the challenges of living out this new identity amidst the ongoing presence of their sin nature. The call to live by the Spirit, to engage in spiritual warfare against the flesh, and to support one another in this struggle is a vivid reminder of the tension that characterizes the Christian life this side of eternity.[/next]

[next]Ephesians 3:14-19

"For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named, that according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God." (ESV)

Paul's prayer for the Ephesian believers to be strengthened with power through the Spirit in their inner being implies an awareness of their current lack of inner spiritual strength. This lack, or deficiency, points to an ongoing struggle within the believers to fully grasp and live out the immensity of the love of Christ. Paul's intercession underscores the necessity of divine empowerment for believers to overcome their spiritual weaknesses and grow in their understanding and experience of God's love, reflecting the ongoing process of sanctification.

Ephesians 4:1-3

"I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." (ESV)

The exhortation to "walk in a manner worthy of the calling" acknowledges the potential for believers to live in ways that do not reflect their high calling in Christ. This call to humility, gentleness, patience, and forbearance in love suggests that such virtues are not automatic in the believer's life but require intentional effort and growth. It highlights the presence of challenges in living out these virtues, indicative of an ongoing struggle against the sin nature.

Ephesians 4:4-6

"There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." (ESV)

This passage emphasizes the unity believers are called to in the Spirit, pointing to the reality of one body, one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father of all. The exhortation to maintain this unity implies challenges within the community that could threaten such oneness. The need to remind believers of these foundational truths suggests an ongoing struggle to live in harmony, reflecting the pervasive influence of the sin nature even within the body of Christ.

Ephesians 4:17-24

"Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity. But that is not the way you learned Christ!—assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness." (ESV)

Here, believers are called to a distinctiveness from their past and the surrounding culture, marked by a rejection of their old selves. This passage not only indicates the believers' former condition but also commands an ongoing transformation—putting off the old self and being renewed in the spirit. It reflects the ongoing struggle with sin and the continual need for sanctification.

Ephesians 4:25-32

"Therefore, having put away falsehood, let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor, for we are members one of another. Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and give no opportunity to the devil. Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." (ESV)

This segment of Ephesians provides practical instructions for living out the new life in Christ, emphasizing truth, integrity, productive work, and edifying speech. It acknowledges the reality of sinful tendencies—such as falsehood, theft, and corrupting talk—but calls believers to a lifestyle that reflects their new identity in Christ. It’s a call to actively reject sin and embrace righteousness, demonstrating the continuous nature of the struggle against sin and the pursuit of holiness in the believer's life.

Ephesians 5:1-5

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints." (ESV)

The contrast between the call to imitate God and the prohibition against sexual immorality, impurity, and covetousness highlights the ongoing battle against sin in the believer's life. The standard is high—nothing less than the holiness of God—and the struggle against sin is real and present.

Ephesians 5:15-18

"Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit." (ESV)

This passage contrasts wise and foolish living, specifically warning against debauchery like drunkenness and instead commanding believers to be filled with the Spirit. The imperative to live wisely and be filled with the Spirit implies a need to resist worldly temptations and sinful inclinations continually.

Ephesians 6:1-3

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 'Honor your father and mother'—which is the first commandment with a promise—'so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.'" (ESV)

The apostle Paul underscores the importance of familial harmony and obedience within the Christian household, specifically addressing children. This admonition acknowledges the potential for discord and disobedience, reflective of a broader struggle against self-centeredness and rebellion. The call to obey and honor parents serves as a reminder of God's design for order and blessing within the family, highlighting the ongoing need for grace and submission to God's will, even in the most basic of human relationships.

Ephesians 6:4

"Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." (ESV)

This verse speaks directly to fathers, warning against the misuse of authority that could lead to resentment and bitterness in their children. It recognizes the potential for fathers, even those who are believers, to act in ways that are not aligned with the nurturing and admonishing role prescribed by the Lord. The exhortation to raise children in the discipline and instruction of the Lord underscores the need for godly wisdom and compassion in parenting, acknowledging the challenges that come with human imperfection and the necessity of relying on the Lord's guidance. This implies it is possible for the believing father not to raise his children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:5-9

"Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. Rendering service with a good will as to the Lord and not to man, knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free. Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him." (ESV)

In addressing both servants (or employees in a contemporary context) and their masters (or employers), Paul highlights the Christian ethic that transcends societal roles and positions. The caution against working only when watched (eye-service) and the admonition for masters to treat their servants with dignity and fairness point to the underlying sin nature that can manifest as laziness, deceit, or abuse of power. These instructions remind believers of their primary allegiance to Christ, calling them to exhibit integrity, diligence, and kindness irrespective of their earthly roles, reflecting the transformative power of the gospel in all aspects of life, including work relationships.

These exhortations acknowledge the real and present challenges believers face due to their sin nature, while also pointing them towards the resources available in Christ for overcoming these obstacles and living in the fullness of God.[/next]

[next]Philippians

In Philippians, Paul addresses a community he deeply cares for, expressing both commendation and correction. The instances where believers are corrected or implied to be struggling with sin are relatively few, but they serve as pivotal reminders of the continual need for humility, unity, and living in a manner worthy of the gospel. Here, we'll explore these instances, starting from chapter 1 through to chapter 4.

Philippians 1:15-17 (ESV)

"Some indeed preach Christ from envy and rivalry, but others from good will. The latter do it out of love, knowing that I am put here for the defense of the gospel. The former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely but thinking to afflict me in my imprisonment."

These verses show that even among those who preached Christ, there were those motivated by envy and rivalry rather than goodwill. Their actions, rooted in selfish ambition, were at odds with the humility and selflessness that the gospel calls for. Paul points out this behavior not to condemn but to highlight the purity of motive that should underpin the proclamation of the gospel.

Philippians 2:3 (ESV)

"Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves."

Paul directly addresses the sin of selfish ambition and conceit, urging believers to adopt humility and consider others more significant than themselves. This correction underscores the conflict between self-centeredness and the call to live in unity and selflessness, mirroring Christ's own humility.

Philippians 2:14 (ESV)

"Do all things without grumbling or disputing,"

This verse implies a tendency among the Philippians to grumble or argue, behaviors that disrupt community unity and witness. By correcting this, Paul points to the sin of discontent and discord, urging believers to conduct themselves in a manner that fosters peace and harmony, thereby shining as lights in the world.

Philippians 4:2-3 (ESV)

"I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life."

Paul directly appeals to Euodia and Syntyche, who, despite their contributions to the gospel work, are in some form of disagreement. This situation suggests a struggle with pride or a lack of unity, which could hinder the gospel's advance. Paul's correction is a call to reconciliation and unity in Christ, reflecting the letter's overarching theme of living in a manner that reflects the gospel's transformative power.

Through these corrections, Philippians vividly portrays the ongoing nature of sanctification, where believers, despite their standing in Christ, must continually strive against sin, seeking to live in unity, humility, and accordance with the gospel. These instances remind us of our own need for grace and the power of the gospel to transform our lives and communities.[/next]

[next]Colossians

Colossians 2:6-7 states: 

"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." (ESV)

This passage underscores the necessity for believers to continue in their commitment to Christ, suggesting a potential for drifting away or becoming detached from the foundation that is in Jesus. The call to be "rooted" and "built up" in Him implies that the believers' faith needs to grow and strengthen over time, acknowledging the challenges and temptations they might face that could hinder their spiritual growth.

Colossians 2:8 warns: 

"See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ." (ESV)

Paul warns the believers about the danger of being misled by philosophies that are not aligned with Christ. This warning implies that believers could be vulnerable to teachings that appeal to human wisdom or tradition, yet are fundamentally opposed to the truths of the gospel. The use of the term "takes you captive" highlights the serious threat these philosophies pose to their spiritual well-being and the purity of their faith in Christ.

Colossians 2:16-17 advises: 

"Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ." (ESV)

Here, Paul addresses the risk of believers being judged or misled by others who might insist on adherence to certain dietary laws or religious observances. This instruction reveals the presence of external pressures that could lead believers into a form of legalism, detracting from the centrality of Christ in their faith and practice. Paul's emphasis on these things being a "shadow" while the "reality is found in Christ" redirects the believers' focus to the substance of their faith, which transcends ritualistic observances.

Colossians 2:20-23 poses a rhetorical question and caution: 

"If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations—'Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch' (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh." (ESV)

Paul criticizes the believers' potential submission to worldly regulations and practices, implying that such adherence reveals a misunderstanding of their identity in Christ. He challenges the Colossians' possible reversion to legalistic practices, which may appear wise but are ineffective in promoting true holiness and are not based on Christ's teachings. This passage reflects Paul's concern for the believers' susceptibility to practices that could enslave them once again to the elemental forces of the world, indicating an ongoing struggle with sin and misunderstanding of their freedom in Christ.

Colossians 3:5-9 is a key passage that addresses believers directly about their ongoing struggle with sin and the need for correction: 

"Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you too once walked, when you were living in them. But now you must put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and obscene talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old self with its practices." (ESV)

This passage clearly speaks to those who are in Christ, urging them to "put to death" or actively work against what belongs to their "earthly nature." The sins listed are not described as distant memories from a pre-conversion past; rather, the imperative "put to death" and "rid yourselves" suggests an ongoing struggle against these sins. Paul acknowledges that these sins were part of their former way of life, indicating that believers can still wrestle with these sins even after conversion. The call to not lie to each other further underscores the reality of sin's presence in the lives of believers, necessitating a continuous, conscious effort to live in accordance with their new identity in Christ.

Colossians 3:12-13 adds to this by encouraging believers in their response to sin and to each other: 

"Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive." (ESV)

In this encouragement, there's an implicit understanding that believers will encounter conflicts and grievances among themselves, signaling that sin affects even relationships within the church. The call to "forgive as the Lord forgave you" not only reminds believers of the basis for their own forgiveness but also points to the necessity of ongoing forgiveness in community life, indicating the presence and challenge of sin among believers.

Colossians 4:6 speaks to the manner of their speech: 

"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person." (ESV)

This exhortation suggests that believers need to be mindful of how they speak, indicating a tendency towards speech that may not be full of grace or seasoned with salt. It's an admonition that recognizes the potential for sin to manifest in how believers communicate, urging them to reflect the character of Christ more fully in their interactions.

Throughout Colossians, the apostle Paul doesn't just highlight the believers' past sins but speaks directly into their present reality, recognizing their ongoing struggle with sin. These passages reflect a theology that understands conversion as the beginning of a process of transformation, where believers are continually called to live out their new identity in Christ, battling against the remnants of their old nature. This perspective is crucial because it acknowledges the dynamic nature of the Christian life, where growth, struggle, and grace coexist in the journey of becoming more like Christ.[/next]

[next]1 Thessalonians

1 Thessalonians is a letter written by Paul to the church in Thessalonica, celebrating their faith and encouraging them in their Christian walk amidst persecution and challenges. While it's primarily commendatory and instructional, rather than corrective like some of Paul's other letters, there are subtle indications that address the ongoing struggle with sin among believers. Let's explore these instances:

1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (ESV)

"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God."

Here, Paul addresses the issue of sexual immorality, urging the believers to live in a way that is distinct from the surrounding pagan culture. The mention of this issue implies that there was a need for correction and an ongoing struggle among some within the church to maintain sexual purity.

1 Thessalonians 4:6 (ESV)

"that no one transgress and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we told you beforehand and solemnly warned you."

This verse further addresses the consequences of sexual immorality, emphasizing the wrong done to others through such actions. The need to warn the believers solemnly suggests that there were instances of believers potentially overstepping boundaries, thus needing correction.

1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 (ESV)

"But concerning brotherly love you have no need that anyone should write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another, for that indeed is what you are doing to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do this more and more,"

While this passage commends the Thessalonians for their love for one another, the exhortation to increase in love implies that there is always room for growth. The implicit understanding is that failing to continually grow in love can be seen as a shortfall or struggle against a self-centered nature.

1 Thessalonians 5:14 (ESV)

"And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all."

Paul here instructs the community to address various struggles within their midst: idleness, discouragement, and weakness. The need to admonish the idle suggests that some believers were struggling with a lack of diligence or responsibility in their Christian walk or communal life.

1 Thessalonians 5:22 (ESV)

"Abstain from every form of evil."

This concise command serves as a reminder that believers are to be vigilant in avoiding sin. The necessity of stating it implies that the temptation to engage in or be associated with evil practices was a real struggle for the believers.

While 1 Thessalonians is largely an epistle of encouragement and commendation for the faith and perseverance of the Thessalonian believers, these passages reveal Paul's pastoral concern for their ongoing sanctification. They highlight that even those who have turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God must continually be vigilant against sin and strive towards holiness, indicating an awareness of the believers' ongoing struggle with their sin nature.[/next]

[next]2 Thessalonians

2 Thessalonians, while primarily addressing themes of perseverance, the return of Christ, and encouragement in the face of persecution, does touch upon the issue of believers struggling with sin, particularly in the context of idleness and disobedience to the apostolic tradition. This letter from Paul to the Thessalonian church is as much a call to stand firm in the faith as it is a corrective to specific behaviors undermining the community's witness and unity.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:6, Paul writes:

"Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us." (ESV)

This verse directly addresses the issue of believers not living out their faith as they ought. The specific sin pointed out is idleness—a refusal to work and live responsibly. Paul's instruction is clear: the community is to distance themselves from believers who persist in this behavior, not to punish, but to bring about recognition and repentance. This command reflects the ongoing struggle within the Christian community to live out the transformative impact of the gospel in every aspect of life, including work and daily responsibilities.

2 Thessalonians 3:11-12 further elaborates on this issue:

"For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living." (ESV)

Here, Paul identifies the specific nature of the struggle: some believers have abandoned their responsibilities, choosing instead to meddle in others' affairs. This behavior is counter to the work ethic Paul and his co-workers modeled, which emphasized self-sufficiency, diligence, and quiet living as testimonies of the faith. By addressing this directly, Paul makes it clear that even after conversion, believers can fall into sin, specifically laziness and irresponsibility, which impact both their spiritual health and the community's well-being.

These passages show that the Thessalonian believers, like all Christians, faced challenges in living out their faith consistently. The presence of sin in the form of idleness and a lack of responsibility among some in the community required apostolic intervention. Paul's response underscores the ongoing process of sanctification in the believer's life, a journey marked not only by victories but also struggles against sin. The correction offered is not just a rebuke but an encouragement to realign with the teachings and life-transforming power of the gospel, reflecting the ongoing nature of spiritual growth and the need for community accountability in the Christian life.[/next]

[next]1 Timothy offers several instances where believers, even after being saved, needed correction or guidance regarding sin, reflecting the ongoing struggle with the sin nature. Let’s explore these instances chronologically through the book:

1 Timothy 1:19-20

"Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck: Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme."

This passage shows that even believers can stray from the path of righteousness, specifically through acts such as blasphemy. Paul mentions Hymenaeus and Alexander as examples of individuals who, despite their initial faith, made shipwreck of it and their good conscience. This implies a struggle with sin that necessitated correction, illustrating that the sin nature can still exert influence over believers, leading them to actions that are against their profession of faith.

1 Timothy 2:8

"I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting."

This verse implies that among the men in the church, there was a tendency to engage in prayer while harboring feelings of wrath and doubt. Such attitudes are contrary to the spirit of prayer, which calls for purity, faith, and a heart free from anger. By addressing this, Paul highlights the need for men to examine their hearts and approach God with the right disposition, acknowledging the struggle believers may have with emotions that hinder their relationship with God and others.

1 Timothy 2:9-10

"In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works."

Here, the instruction for women to dress modestly and focus on good works rather than outward adornment suggests that there was an issue with how some women were presenting themselves. This guidance implies a struggle with vanity or prioritizing external appearance over inner godliness. Paul's emphasis on modesty and good works points to the need for a heart change among women to reflect the values of godliness in their appearance and actions.

1 Timothy 2:11-15

"Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety."

These verses address the roles of women in the church, specifically regarding teaching and authority. The admonition for women to learn in silence and not to usurp authority over men implies that there were instances where this was not being followed. This situation indicates a struggle with maintaining the order and roles as outlined by Paul, necessitating correction to align with the principles of submission and order within the church community.

1 Timothy 3:1-13

This chapter outlines the qualifications for overseers (or bishops) and deacons, including being above reproach, faithful to one’s spouse, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money, managing their own household well, and having a good reputation with outsiders, among others.

By establishing these qualifications, Paul implicitly suggests that there were individuals within the church who might aspire to these positions but did not meet these standards. The detailed list of qualifications serves as a corrective guide to ensure that those in leadership positions exhibit characteristics befitting their role, reflecting a godly life both within and outside the church. This implies an understanding that believers, including potential leaders, might struggle with issues such as self-control, hospitality, and temperance, and thus need guidance and encouragement to grow in these areas.

1 Timothy 4:1-2

"Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;"

Here, the text warns of believers who will depart from the faith, influenced by deceitful teachings and seducing spirits. The mention of speaking lies in hypocrisy and having a seared conscience indicates a struggle with sin among those who were once part of the faith community. This struggle is not just with external sin but with the very beliefs and doctrines they hold, showing how deep the battle with sin goes.

1 Timothy 5:8

"But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an unbeliever."

Paul addresses a specific sin that believers might fall into: neglecting their familial responsibilities. This admonition implies that believers can fail in their duties, a reflection of their ongoing struggle with selfishness or neglect, which is contrary to the teachings of Christ. Such behavior is seen as a denial of the faith, highlighting how sin can manifest in various aspects of a believer’s life.

1 Timothy 5:15

"For some are already turned aside after Satan."

In the context of advising Timothy on how to manage widows in the church, Paul mentions that some have turned aside after Satan. This turning aside implies a departure from living according to the faith to following sinful practices. It shows that believers can be led astray and need correction and guidance back to the path of righteousness, evidencing the ongoing internal battle with sin.

1 Timothy 6:9-10

"But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."

This passage highlights the dangers of covetousness and the love of money, suggesting that believers can fall into this sin. The struggle with materialism and the resultant departure from the faith demonstrate that the sin nature can lead believers into temptations that result in spiritual harm and sorrow. It serves as a warning against allowing worldly desires to overcome spiritual commitments.

These examples from 1 Timothy reflect the reality that believers, while saved, continue to face challenges and struggles with sin in their lives. It underscores the necessity of vigilance, correction, and reliance on God’s grace for overcoming these struggles and living in a manner that honors God.[/next]

[next]2 Timothy

2 Timothy 1:5-7 (ESV): 

"I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you as well. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."

In these verses, Paul acknowledges Timothy's sincere faith, a heritage of belief passed down from his grandmother and mother. However, Paul also finds it necessary to remind Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God" within him, indicating that Timothy might be neglecting the spiritual gifts or perhaps hesitating to use them fully. This hesitance is further addressed by correcting a spirit of fear. Paul contrasts the fear Timothy might be feeling with the spirit God gives, which is one of power, love, and self-discipline. This passage suggests that even those with a strong faith can struggle with fear and timidity, especially when facing opposition or the responsibilities of ministry. It’s a call to overcome such struggles by relying on the empowerment that comes from God.

2 Timothy 1:8 (ESV): 

"Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God."

Here, Paul explicitly urges Timothy not to be ashamed of the gospel or of Paul’s imprisonment for the sake of the gospel. The exhortation implies Timothy may be battling with fear or shame associated with public association with Paul and the gospel, especially in the face of potential suffering or persecution. This reflects a struggle with the sin of fear and shame, which can hinder the bold proclamation of the gospel and sharing in the sufferings that come with faithfulness to Christ.

2 Timothy 1:12 (ESV): 

"But I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am convinced that he is able to guard until that Day what has been entrusted to me."

While this verse primarily expresses Paul’s own steadfastness and lack of shame in his sufferings for the gospel, it serves as an indirect admonition to Timothy by example. Paul’s confidence in Christ and his unashamed stance in the face of suffering underscore the sin of fear and shame that Timothy might be facing. It’s an encouragement for Timothy to hold fast to his faith and to the knowledge of Christ’s power and faithfulness, despite the potential for suffering.

2 Timothy 1:15 (ESV): 

"You are aware that all who are in Asia turned away from me, among whom are Phygelus and Hermogenes."

This verse shows a turning away from Paul's teachings, which by extension could be seen as a turning away from the gospel he preached. The act of turning away implies a struggle with faithfulness and truth, potentially succumbing to sin or false teachings. It's a caution against the sin of abandoning true doctrine and the fellowship of faithful believers.

2 Timothy 2:16-18 (ESV): 

"But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness, and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have swerved from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened. They are upsetting the faith of some."

Here, Paul highlights the sin of spreading false teachings, specifically the claim that the resurrection had already occurred, which is a deviation from core Christian doctrine. The passage not only warns against the spread of heretical ideas but also shows that believers can be led astray, succumbing to the sin of promoting untruths and thereby undermining the faith of others.

2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV): 

"But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."

This passage describes various sins that will be prevalent among people in the last days, including among those who claim to be followers of Christ. The warning against those "having the appearance of godliness but denying its power" directly addresses believers who outwardly appear religious but do not live out the transformative power of the gospel in their lives. It's a stark reminder of the struggle against hypocritical living and the sin of failing to allow one's faith to produce genuine change.

2 Timothy 4:10 (ESV): 

"For Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica."

Demas is mentioned as someone who was once a fellow worker with Paul but later abandoned him. The reason given is his love for the present world, which suggests a yielding to the temptation of worldly desires over the commitment to the work of the gospel. This illustrates the struggle with the sin of worldliness and the challenge of maintaining one's dedication to Christ and His mission.

Each of these examples from 2 Timothy demonstrates that believers can and do struggle with sin after being saved. Paul's admonitions serve both as warnings and as encouragements for believers to remain vigilant, to hold fast to sound doctrine, and to pursue righteousness, grounded in the grace and power of Christ.[/next]

[next]Titus

In Paul's letter to Titus, we find a pastoral epistle that addresses how to organize and conduct church life, emphasizing good works and sound doctrine in the face of false teaching and moral laxity. This letter also acknowledges the ongoing struggle believers have with sin, urging correction and growth towards godliness. Let's walk through the instances in Titus that either directly state or imply that someone who is a believer needed correction for sin, indicating a struggle with sin nature even after being saved.

Titus 1:6

"if anyone is above reproach, the husband of one wife, and his children are believers and not open to the charge of debauchery or insubordination." (ESV)

This verse sets qualifications for elders, indicating that leaders in the church must manage their households well, with children who believe and are well-behaved. The implication here is that even within Christian families, there can be struggles with sin, such as debauchery and insubordination in children, which necessitates a father's careful and corrective guidance.

Titus 1:12-13

"One of the Cretans, a prophet of their own, said, 'Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.' This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith," (ESV)

Paul quotes a Cretan prophet to highlight the sinful tendencies of the Cretan population, including believers. He instructs Titus to rebuke them sharply—not to shame them but to encourage their growth towards soundness in faith. This acknowledges that believers, influenced by their cultural background, might struggle with sins like lying, evil behavior, and laziness, and need correction.

Titus 2:1-2

"But as for you, teach what accords with sound doctrine. Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness." (ESV)

In this passage, Paul instructs Titus on teaching sound doctrine, specifying that older men should exhibit certain virtues. The call for older men to be sober-minded, dignified, and self-controlled suggests that there is a propensity toward the opposite—implying struggles with issues like drunkenness, undignified behavior, and lack of self-control. Paul's directive is a corrective measure to address these struggles.

Titus 2:3-5

"Older women likewise are to be reverent in behavior, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled." (ESV)

This segment underscores the need for older women in the faith to exhibit a life of reverence, steering clear of slander and excessive drinking. It implies that without such guidance, there exists a propensity among believers, specifically older women, for these particular sins. The directive for them to teach what is good, including urging younger women to exhibit love, self-control, and purity, acknowledges an ongoing battle with sins like slander, lack of self-control, and purity. These instructions are corrective measures aimed at fostering godly living and ensuring that the conduct of believers aligns with the gospel they profess.

Titus 2:6-8

"Likewise, urge the younger men to be self-controlled. Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works, and in your teaching show integrity, dignity, and sound speech that cannot be condemned, so that an opponent may be put to shame, having nothing evil to say about us." (ESV)

Paul's counsel to Titus about young men emphasizes the necessity for self-control, integrity, dignity, and sound speech. This guidance implies that young men face challenges with self-discipline, integrity, and how they communicate, indicating struggles with youthful impulses, temptation towards dishonesty or undignified behavior, and potentially harmful speech. The encouragement to be self-controlled and to set an example by doing what is good serves as a corrective strategy to address these struggles, promoting a life that reflects the transformative power of the gospel.

Titus 2:9-10

"Slaves are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior." (ESV)

In these verses, Paul addresses slaves within the Christian community, instructing them on how to conduct themselves in relation to their masters. The directives to not talk back and not to steal are corrective measures that acknowledge potential issues with disrespect and theft among believers in servitude. This guidance is rooted in the desire to showcase the transformative effect of the gospel on a believer's life, making the teaching about God attractive through exemplary behavior. This implies that even those in the most challenging circumstances are called to live out their faith in ways that honor God, acknowledging their struggles and offering a pathway to overcoming them through adherence to gospel principles.

Titus 2:11-12

"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age," (ESV)

Paul reminds believers of the grace of God that brings salvation and trains us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions. This passage clearly acknowledges that Christians, though saved, need to be continually trained to turn away from sin, indicating an ongoing struggle with sin nature.

Titus 3:3

"For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another." (ESV)

While this verse primarily recounts the past life of sin before coming to faith, it also serves as a stark reminder to believers of their capacity for sin. By recalling their previous state, Paul implicitly warns against falling back into such patterns, suggesting an ongoing vigilance is necessary in the fight against sin.

Titus 3:8

"The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people." (ESV)

This verse emphasizes the importance of believers devoting themselves to doing what is good, highlighting the need for constant encouragement towards good works. The call to be "careful to devote themselves to doing what is good" implies that there is a temptation to neglect good works or to become complacent in one’s faith journey. Paul's instruction serves as a corrective reminder that faith in God expresses itself through a life committed to goodness, showcasing an understanding that believers must continually be encouraged and reminded to pursue what is beneficial not only for themselves but for all.

Titus 3:9-11

"But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, dissensions, and quarrels about the law, for they are unprofitable and worthless. As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned." (ESV)

In these verses, Paul warns against getting involved in foolish debates and quarrels, which he deems unprofitable and worthless. The instruction to avoid such controversies and to warn divisive individuals not once, but twice, before disassociating from them, underscores the reality of conflicts within the community of believers. It acknowledges that even those who have faith in Christ can become entangled in divisive behavior, which is indicative of a struggle with pride or a desire for contention. The directive to eventually disassociate from those who persist in divisiveness acts as a severe corrective measure, designed to preserve the unity and purity of the church community.

Titus 3:14

"And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful." (ESV)

This final admonition in Titus reiterates the theme of good works, specifically the necessity of learning to devote oneself to acts of goodness that address urgent needs. The emphasis on learning indicates that living a productive life characterized by good works isn't automatic or innate to believers but requires intentional effort and education. The mention of not living unfruitful lives acts as a corrective against passivity or neglect of one's duty to contribute positively to the community and to the needs of others. This guidance aligns with the letter's overarching message that faith is demonstrated through action, and believers are called to actively engage in works that reflect God's love and provision.[/next]

[next]Philemon

Philemon is a unique book in the New Testament, primarily focusing on the relationship between Philemon, a wealthy Christian, Onesimus, a runaway slave who became a Christian, and Paul, the apostle. Since Philemon consists of only one chapter, our search will encompass this singular chapter for instances that imply a believer needed correction for sin or struggled with their sin nature post-conversion.

Philemon 1:8-9 (ESV): 

"Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus—"

In these verses, Paul addresses Philemon not with the authority he has in Christ to command obedience but rather chooses to appeal on the basis of love. This approach implies that Philemon, despite being a believer, might still need encouragement and correction in doing what is right concerning Onesimus. It suggests that believers can still struggle with doing what they know is right and may need gentle correction and encouragement to make decisions that reflect their faith in Christ.

Philemon 1:10-11 (ESV): 

"I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.)"

While these verses primarily describe the transformation of Onesimus from being "useless" to "useful," it indirectly addresses a broader theme of believers needing correction. The implication for Philemon (and by extension, believers) is the challenge of accepting and forgiving someone who has wronged them. It highlights the struggle believers may have with forgiveness and acceptance, particularly of those who have sinned against them but have since transformed.

Philemon 1:15-16 (ESV): 

"For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a slave but more than a slave, as a beloved brother. Especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord."

These verses suggest that Philemon's attitude toward Onesimus needs to change from seeing him merely as a slave to recognizing him as a dear brother in the Lord. This change in perspective requires Philemon to overcome any societal or personal biases he might have held against Onesimus or slaves in general. It points to the ongoing struggle believers face in renewing their minds and attitudes to align with Christ's teachings on equality and brotherhood among believers.

Philemon 1:21 (ESV): 

"Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say."

Paul expresses confidence in Philemon's eventual decision to do the right thing concerning Onesimus. This confidence, however, also gently corrects and encourages Philemon to live up to the Christian ideal of forgiveness and brotherly love. It acknowledges the ongoing process of sanctification in a believer's life, wherein they continuously learn to live out the implications of the Gospel in their relationships with others.

In these passages, we see the nuanced way in which the book of Philemon addresses the reality of the believer's struggle with sin post-conversion. It does so not by outright stating these struggles but through the relational dynamics between Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus, and the gentle corrections and encouragements woven throughout the text.[/next]

[next]Hebrews

Hebrews 2:1-3 

"Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it. For since the message declared by angels proved to be reliable, and every transgression or disobedience received a just retribution, how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation? It was declared at first by the Lord, and it was attested to us by those who heard." (ESV)

This passage, while not explicitly detailing believers committing sins, warns of the potential to "drift away" from the truths of the gospel. This drifting implies a struggle with maintaining faithfulness and obedience, a manifestation of the sin nature believers continue to battle even after salvation. The call to pay "much closer attention" and the question "how shall we escape if we neglect such a great salvation?" underline the ongoing vigilance required to resist sin and persevere in faith, highlighting the reality of the believer's ongoing struggle with a sin nature.

Hebrews 3:12-13 

"Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called ‘today,’ that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin." (ESV)

This passage directly addresses believers (brothers) and warns against the development of an evil, unbelieving heart—an indication that even those who have come to faith in Christ are not immune to the temptation and deceitfulness of sin. The call to mutual exhortation underscores the necessity of community in combating sin's hardening effects. The struggle isn't merely against external sins but also the internal state of the heart, which can become unbelieving and thus separated from God.

Hebrews 3:15 

"As it is said, 'Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion.'" (ESV)

This verse, while referring back to the Israelites' rebellion in the wilderness, serves as a warning to the Hebrews (and by extension, all believers) not to follow the same path of disobedience and hard-heartedness. The implication is that the susceptibility to harden one's heart against God's voice is a present and ongoing risk for believers, pointing to the struggle against sin that does not cease upon conversion.

Hebrews 4:1 

"Therefore, while the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us fear lest any of you should seem to have failed to reach it." (ESV)

The context here is the promise of God's rest—a metaphor for the ultimate salvation and rest in Christ. The admonition to "fear" suggests that there is a genuine possibility for believers to fail in fully embracing or remaining in this rest, indicative of ongoing battles with disbelief and disobedience, both of which are manifestations of sin.

Hebrews 4:11 

"Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, so that no one may fall by the same sort of disobedience." (ESV)

This verse reinforces the concept of diligent effort ("strive") in the life of a believer to enter God's rest, contrasting it with disobedience, which is equated with failure to enter. The call to strive and the warning against disobedience both imply that believers are engaged in an ongoing struggle against sin that can hinder their full enjoyment of and entrance into God's promised rest.

Hebrews 5:11-14 

"About this we have much to say, and it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil." (ESV)

This passage addresses a form of spiritual immaturity among the readers, implied by their inability to engage with deeper theological truths ("dull of hearing"). The rebuke centers on their lack of progress, which suggests an ongoing struggle with the basic principles of faith rather than advancing to maturity. This struggle can be indicative of an underlying sin nature that resists growth and deeper understanding, highlighting the necessity for correction and encouragement towards maturity in faith.

Hebrews 6:1-6 

"Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, and of instruction about washings, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And this we will do if God permits. For it is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift, and have shared in the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they are crucifying once again the Son of God to their own harm and holding him up to contempt." (ESV)

This section not only encourages believers to progress beyond the foundational aspects of their faith but also issues a stern warning against falling away. The struggle here lies in the potential to regress or deviate from the path of faith after having experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and the word of God. The warning against falling away implicitly acknowledges the believers' ongoing battle with sin, which can lead them away from steadfastness in their faith. It serves as a corrective reminder of the gravity of turning back to sin after having known the truth.

Hebrews 7:19 

"(for the law made nothing perfect); but on the other hand, a better hope is introduced, through which we draw near to God." (ESV)

This verse implies that the law was insufficient in making anyone perfect, indicating an ongoing struggle with sin under the old covenant. The introduction of a "better hope" through Jesus suggests that the new covenant provides a more effective means of dealing with sin, not by eradicating the believer's struggle with sin, but by offering a superior basis for drawing near to God. This highlights the necessity of Jesus' priesthood and sacrifice, which enables believers to overcome their sin through ongoing reliance on Him.

Hebrews 8:10-12 

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest. For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more." (ESV)

The passage from Hebrews 8:10-12 introduces the profound promise of the new covenant: God's laws not only given externally but inscribed on the hearts and minds of His people, ensuring a deeply personal and intimate knowledge of God among all, from the least to the greatest. This covenant surpasses the old by establishing a direct, unmediated relationship with God, characterized by His mercy and the complete forgiveness of sins. 

However, the necessity of explaining and urging believers to understand and live by this covenant highlights an essential truth: the transformative benefits of salvation require active appropriation by the believer. It's a call to move beyond mere acknowledgment towards a lived experience of faith, where the believer actively participates in the maturity and depth of relationship that the new covenant offers.

Hebrews 9:14 

"How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God!" (ESV)

This passage informs the Hebrews believers about the superior ability of Christ to cleanse their conscience from dead works. It shows that such a conscience cleansing is necessary in order to serve the living God. This, combined with the fact they were resorting back to the Old Testament ceremonial system, shows they were not experiencing a conscience that was cleansed from dead works, and were therefore not able to serve God effectively.

Hebrews 10:1-2 

"For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins." (ESV)

These passages highlight the inadequacy of the Old Covenant's rituals in providing a complete remedy for sin's guilt and influence. This reliance on continual sacrifices underlines a crucial misunderstanding among the Hebrew believers: the inability of these rites to fully liberate one's conscience from sin. 

The essence of the author's message to them is a call to embrace the New Covenant, where Christ's singular, sufficient sacrifice replaces the endless cycle of offerings. Unlike the temporary measures of the past, Jesus' atonement permanently removes the guilt of sin, inviting believers into a life marked by true freedom and reconciliation with God. This shift from reliance on outdated rituals to faith in Christ's completed work is fundamental to experiencing the fullness of God's redemption and grace.

Hebrews 10:22 

"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water." (ESV)

The exhortation to draw near with a true heart and cleansed conscience suggests that the audience was dealing with the remnants of sin that impeded their full assurance of faith. The imagery of being sprinkled and washed not only alludes to the cleansing power of Christ's sacrifice but also indicates an ongoing process of purification believers must embrace. This reflects the ongoing struggle against sin and the necessity of continually applying Christ's work to one's life.

Hebrews 10:26-27 

"For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries." (ESV)

This passage directly addresses believers, emphasizing the seriousness of willfully persisting in sin after coming to the knowledge of the truth, which is found in Christ Jesus. The warning against a deliberate continuation in sin serves as a stark reminder that even those who have been saved are capable of sinning and must heed correction. It underscores the ongoing battle with the sin nature that believers face, and the necessity of living in accordance with the transformation Christ has wrought in their lives.

Hebrews 10:29-31 

"How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, 'Vengeance is mine; I will repay.' And again, 'The Lord will judge his people.' It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." (ESV)

Here, the text delves into the consequences of despising the sacrifice of Christ, which signifies a grievous sin for believers who, despite being sanctified by the blood of the covenant, might treat this sacrifice as common or unworthy of honor. This discussion implies that believers, who are expected to live by the Spirit, can still fail and treat with contempt the grace that has been bestowed upon them. It points to the struggle within the believer between the old nature and the new creation in Christ, emphasizing the necessity for vigilance and humility in their walk with God.

Hebrews 10:35-36 

"Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised." (ESV)

This encouragement not to abandon confidence in God implicitly suggests that believers can become discouraged or weary in their faith, potentially leading them away from living righteously. It speaks to the real struggle believers face in persevering in their faith and maintaining a lifestyle that reflects their commitment to Christ. The call to endurance highlights the ongoing nature of this struggle and the need for continual reliance on God's strength rather than succumbing to sin.

Hebrews 12:1 

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us," (ESV)

This verse implies that believers, who are part of the race marked out by faith, are prone to being entangled by sin. It acknowledges the ongoing struggle against sin that believers face, even after having been saved. The imagery of being entangled suggests that sin is not just a one-time obstacle but a recurring challenge that requires continual effort to overcome.

Hebrews 12:4-11 

"In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? 'My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.' [...] For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." (ESV)

This passage directly addresses believers' struggle against sin, indicating that this struggle is expected and normal in the Christian life. The reference to discipline and correction from the Lord serves as a reminder that believers, even though they are saved, are not beyond the need for correction and guidance. The discipline mentioned here is a sign of God's love and His desire for believers to share in His holiness, illustrating that growth in holiness often comes through the challenges and corrections we face in our fight against sin.

Hebrews 12:15-16 

"See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no 'root of bitterness' springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal." (ESV)

This segment warns believers about the dangers of falling into sin, such as bitterness and sexual immorality. It highlights the need for vigilance in the community of faith to prevent these sins from taking root. The mention of Esau serves as a cautionary example of how disregarding one's spiritual inheritance for immediate, worldly desires can lead to long-term consequences and loss. It underscores that believers, while saved, must actively resist sin and its deceptive promises.

Hebrews 13:4 

"Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous." (ESV)

This verse implicitly addresses believers, reminding them of the importance of purity and fidelity within marriage. It acknowledges the temptation of sexual immorality as a real issue that believers must guard against. The mention of God's judgment on the adulterer and the sexually immoral serves as a sobering reminder that sin has consequences, even for those who are in Christ, and emphasizes the need for continual reliance on God's grace and strength to live a life that honors Him.

The book of Hebrews provides a comprehensive look at the believer's journey, acknowledging the reality of ongoing struggles with sin while emphasizing the superiority and sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice as the basis for our salvation and sanctification. It calls believers to a vigilant life of faith, rooted in the assurance and hope offered through Jesus, our great High Priest. This journey is marked by challenges and the need for discipline, but it is also undergirded by God's unwavering love and commitment to transform us into the likeness of Christ. As we engage with these truths, we are encouraged to persevere in faith, hold fast to our confession, and live lives that reflect the transformative power of the gospel.[/next]

[next]James

James 1:7 ESV: 

"For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord;"

This verse is part of a larger context addressing believers who ask God for wisdom but do so with doubt in their hearts. James 1:6-8 discusses the importance of asking in faith, without wavering, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Verse 7 underscores the consequence of such doubt: the lack of expectation to receive anything from the Lord. It implies a struggle with faith and trust in God among believers, pointing to the necessity of a steadfast faith that does not waver in the face of trials or decisions. This segment highlights the challenge believers face in fully relying on God and the importance of unwavering faith in receiving His guidance and blessings.

James 1:14-15 ESV:

"But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death."

James addresses believers, acknowledging that they are subject to temptation stemming from their own desires. This highlights the internal battle with sinful desires that persists even after one has come to faith, pointing to the reality of the believer's struggle with the sin nature.

James 2:1 ESV: 

"My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory."

By admonishing believers not to show favoritism, James implies that such partiality is a sin that believers are indeed struggling with. This direct correction reveals that even those who have faith in Jesus Christ can falter in living out the implications of that faith fully.

James 2:14-17 ESV: 

"What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, 'Go in peace, be warmed and filled,' without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead."

This passage confronts the sin of inaction among believers, challenging the dichotomy between professing faith and living it out through deeds. It implies that failing to act on one’s faith is a significant struggle, revealing a disconnect that can exist between belief and behavior.

James 2:18-26 ESV: 

"But someone will say, 'You have faith and I have works.' Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, 'Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness'—and he was called a friend of God. You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead."

James continues to address the issue of faith without deeds, arguing that true faith is demonstrated through actions. This section further illuminates the struggle among believers to live out their faith authentically, highlighting that mere intellectual assent to theological truths is insufficient.

James 3:2 ESV: 

"For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body."

James recognizes that all believers, including himself ("we"), stumble in various ways, including in speech. This universal statement underscores the ongoing struggle with sin, highlighting that perfection in conduct is an ideal that believers strive toward, acknowledging their present imperfections.

James 3:9-10 ESV: 

"With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so."

Here, James identifies the sin of inconsistency in speech among believers. The struggle to control the tongue and align one’s words with one’s faith is portrayed as an area of ongoing conflict, indicating the deeper challenge of living a life that is wholly congruent with one's professed beliefs.

James 4:1-2 ESV: 

"What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask."

James identifies the source of conflicts among believers as arising from sinful desires and covetousness, marking a clear struggle with sin. This direct link between internal desires and external sinful actions among believers underscores the ongoing nature of the sin struggle within the Christian community.

James 4:4-5 ESV: 

"You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, 'He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us'?"

This passage rebukes believers for their worldliness and spiritual adultery, illustrating the sin of loving the things of the world over God. It underscores the believers' struggle with divided loyalties, highlighting the tension between earthly desires and heavenly allegiance.

James 4:7-10 ESV: 

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you."

In calling believers to repentance, James addresses the need for believers to actively resist sin and purify their hearts. This call to submission and purification highlights the ongoing need for vigilance against sin, reinforcing the idea that the struggle with sin is a continuous aspect of the Christian life. This emphasis on submission to God, resisting the devil, and drawing near to God showcases the active role that believers must take in their spiritual journey. It's a powerful reminder that humility and contrition before God are keys to overcoming sin and experiencing His lifting up in our lives.

James 5:1-6 ESV: 

"Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days. Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you."

In James 5:1-6, the rebuke directed at the wealthy for hoarding wealth and exploiting workers serves as a stark warning against the sins of greed, injustice, and indulgence. This passage exposes the misalignment between professing faith and actions that contradict the ethical demands of that faith, emphasizing the ongoing struggle to live justly and compassionately. It highlights the serious implications of failing to embody the principles of justice and generosity within the community of believers, pointing out that such behaviors are in direct conflict with the values of the kingdom of God.

James 5:7 ESV: 

"Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains."

Here, James encourages believers to be patient in their trials and in waiting for the Lord's return. This exhortation implies a struggle with impatience and enduring through suffering, underscoring the need for perseverance in faith amidst life's challenges. The analogy of the farmer waiting for the harvest serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of patience and trust in God’s timing, even when it's not immediately evident.

James 5:9 ESV: 

"Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door."

By warning believers against grumbling about one another, James highlights another area of sin that requires correction. This indicates an ongoing issue within the community, where believers are still learning to live out the implications of their faith in their relationships with one another. The reminder that the Judge is standing at the door serves as a sobering call to live in harmony and peace, mindful of our accountability to God.

James 5:12 ESV: 

"But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your 'yes' be yes and your 'no' be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation."

This command against swearing by anything other than a simple 'Yes' or 'No' addresses the temptation to engage in practices that compromise integrity. It suggests an ongoing struggle to maintain honesty and straightforwardness in speech among believers, emphasizing the importance of living truthfully and transparently in alignment with our faith.

James 5:13-20 ESV: 

"Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit. My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins."

This section directly addresses the problem of sin among believers, encouraging confession and mutual prayer for healing and forgiveness. It emphasizes the community's role in restoring those who stray, highlighting the power of prayer in overcoming sin and the importance of accountability within the Christian life. The example of Elijah demonstrates that the prayers of the faithful have profound impact, encouraging believers to persist in prayer and mutual support as they navigate the complexities of life and faith.[/next]

[next]1 Peter

1 Peter 1:14-16 ESV

"As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"

Peter addresses believers as "obedient children," urging them to not revert to their former ways, defined by ignorance and worldly desires. This call to holiness is rooted in the character of God Himself, who is holy. The imperative to be holy in "all your conduct" suggests a comprehensive transformation of life that affects every action and decision, highlighting the ongoing nature of sanctification in the believer's life.

1 Peter 2:1 ESV

"So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander."

This verse commands believers to discard behaviors that disrupt community and personal integrity, pointing towards the transformation that follows genuine faith. By listing specific vices, Peter underscores the practical aspects of sanctification, suggesting that spiritual growth involves the active rejection of sin and the cultivation of love and unity within the body of Christ.

1 Peter 2:11 ESV

"Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul."

Peter's appeal to believers as "sojourners and exiles" frames the Christian life as one of temporary residency in this world, with a higher allegiance to God's kingdom. The exhortation to abstain from fleshly desires acknowledges the internal battle between the believer's new nature in Christ and their remaining sinful inclinations, emphasizing the need for vigilance and perseverance in the pursuit of godliness.

1 Peter 4:1-2 ESV

"Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God."

Peter connects the believer's experience of suffering with Christ's own sufferings, presenting it as both an example to follow and a means through which believers are drawn away from sin. This perspective on suffering as a component of the Christian life not only aligns believers with Christ but also signifies a break from sin, emphasizing the transformation of desires and priorities.

1 Peter 4:3 ESV

"For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry."

Reflecting on the past, Peter reminds believers of the contrast between their former life in sin and their new life in Christ. This verse reinforces the call to holiness by underlining the sufficiency of their past sinful behaviors and the necessity of a decisive break from such practices, highlighting the radical nature of Christian conversion and sanctification.

1 Peter 5:8-9 ESV

"Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world."

Peter warns of the ongoing spiritual battle against sin and Satan, urging believers to be vigilant and steadfast in their faith. This admonition to resist the devil acknowledges the reality of spiritual warfare in the believer's life and the community of faith's shared experience of suffering, encouraging perseverance and solidarity among Christians.

These passages from 1 Peter collectively underscore the continuous nature of sanctification in the believer's life, marked by vigilance, rejection of sin, suffering for righteousness, and a steadfast pursuit of holiness in imitation of Christ.[/next]

[next]2 Peter

2 Peter 1:5-10 (ESV)

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall."

This passage highlights the importance of continual growth in Christian character, emphasizing how virtues like self-control, godliness, and love not only enrich our faith but also protect us from spiritual stagnation. The diligent addition of these qualities ensures effectiveness and fruitfulness in our Christian walk, reminding us of our redemption and calling.

2 Peter 2:20-22 (ESV)

"For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. What the true proverb says has happened to them: 'The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.'"

Peter warns of the severe consequences of turning away from Christ after having once embraced the gospel. This vivid imagery serves as a stern reminder of the peril of returning to sinful ways, illustrating how such a regression is even worse than never having known the path of righteousness at all.

2 Peter 3:17 (ESV)

"You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability."

In his concluding warning, Peter calls believers to vigilance against being led astray by false teachings and the immorality of others. This admonition stresses the ongoing need for spiritual discernment and steadfastness, highlighting the constant danger of falling into sin through the influence of erroneous doctrines and ungodly associations.[/next]

[next]1 John

1 John contains several passages that directly address the reality of sin in the lives of believers, indicating that even after being saved, Christians are not locked into a state of sinless perfection and are capable of sinning. Let's explore these instances:

1 John 1:8-10

"If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us." (ESV)

This passage directly confronts the idea of sinless perfection among believers. John emphasizes that claiming to be without sin is self-deceptive and contradicts the truth. The call to confess our sins acknowledges that sin is a reality for believers, and the promise of forgiveness and purification indicates ongoing sanctification rather than a state of achieved perfection.

1 John 2:1-2

"My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world." (ESV)

Here, John acknowledges the ideal of not sinning while simultaneously recognizing the reality that believers might sin. The provision of Jesus Christ as an advocate for those who do sin further underscores the understanding that believers, despite being saved, can still fall into sin and need continuous atonement and advocacy.

1 John 3:9-10

"No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him, and he cannot keep on sinning because he has been born of God. By this it is evident who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is the one who does not love his brother." (ESV)

This passage might seem at first to support the idea of sinless perfection, but in context, it speaks to a lifestyle or pattern of sin. The key is the phrase "makes a practice of sinning" or "cannot keep on sinning," which indicates habitual, unrepentant sinning. It implies that while a believer may sin, there is a transformative work of the Holy Spirit that changes their relationship to sin, preventing sin from being the defining characteristic of their life.

1 John 5:16-17

"If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life—to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin that does not lead to death." (ESV)

This passage recognizes the reality of sin among believers, distinguishing between sins that "lead to death" and those that do not. The encouragement to pray for a brother or sister caught in sin underscores the expectation that believers will indeed sin and are in need of intercession and restoration.

These passages collectively challenge the notion of sinless perfection in the believer's life, affirming instead the continuous need for confession, advocacy by Christ, and sanctification.[/next]

[next]2 John

2 John is a brief epistle, focusing primarily on truth, love, and the warnings against deceivers and antichrists who deny Jesus Christ's coming in the flesh. The primary aim is to encourage adherence to the teaching of Christ and to practice love. However, it does touch upon the reality that believers can be led astray and thus implicitly acknowledges that believers are not beyond the temptation to sin or deviate from the truth.

2 John 1:8

"Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward." (ESV)

This verse implies that believers must be vigilant to not lose the doctrinal and moral ground they have gained. The necessity of this warning implies that believers are capable of being led astray or engaging in sin, which would result in a loss of reward. The call to "watch yourselves" suggests that maintaining faithfulness is an ongoing effort, not guaranteed by a state of sinless perfection.

2 John 1:9-11

"Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works." (ESV)

These verses warn against deviating from the teachings of Christ and the danger of welcoming or endorsing those who do. The admonition against "going on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ" shows that believers can indeed veer off the path of truth into error and sin. The warning against even greeting such a person indicates the seriousness of the issue and the real possibility of believers being influenced to sin by accepting or condoning false teachings.

These passages collectively underscore that believers, while saved and walking in the light of Christ, must continually guard against false teachings, moral lapses, and the influence of those who oppose Christ's doctrines. The need for such warnings confirms that believers have not reached a state of sinless perfection and must be diligent in their faith and conduct.[/next]

[next]3 John

3 John is a brief epistle, primarily focusing on issues of hospitality, support for itinerant teachers, and conflicts within the church, particularly with a figure named Diotrephes. While it does not extensively detail the nature of sin among believers, it does provide a notable instance involving Diotrephes, which reflects on the behavior not consistent with Christian ideals, even among believers.

3 John 1:9-10 ESV

"I have written something to the church, but Diotrephes, who likes to put himself first, does not acknowledge our authority. So if I come, I will bring up what he is doing, talking wicked nonsense against us. And not content with that, he refuses to welcome the brothers, and also stops those who want to and puts them out of the church."

In this passage, the apostle John speaks directly about Diotrephes, a member of the church, who is engaging in behavior unbecoming of a believer. Diotrephes' actions—seeking preeminence, spreading false accusations against John and his companions, refusing to show hospitality to other believers, and even expelling those who wish to be hospitable—serve as a clear indication that believers can indeed act in ways that are contrary to the teachings of Christ.

The fact that Diotrephes is a part of the church yet displays such behavior implies that believers are not automatically granted a state of sinless perfection upon coming to faith. Instead, this passage underscores the ongoing need for correction, humility, and alignment with the teachings of Jesus even after one has become a believer. The mention of Diotrephes' actions serves as a sober reminder that the Christian life is a continual process of sanctification, where believers are called to grow in conformity to the image of Christ, acknowledging their imperfections and the possibility of sinning, and relying on God's grace for transformation.[/next]

[next]Jude

The Epistle of Jude, while short, is packed with admonitions and warnings to the church about false teachers and the necessity of remaining steadfast in faith. In Jude, the call for correction among believers stems more from the need to contend for the faith and resist false teachings rather than direct correction of sin among the faithful. However, Jude does imply that believers are at risk of falling into sin and thus not locked into a state of sinless perfection. Here are instances that illustrate this point:

Jude 1:4 (ESV)

"For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ."

This verse warns about ungodly individuals who had infiltrated the community, perverting grace as a license for immorality. The implication for believers here is the danger of being swayed by these teachings, suggesting that followers of Christ can be led into sin if they are not vigilant. The verse underlines the necessity for discernment and the possibility of believers falling into sinful behaviors if misled by false teachings.

Jude 1:12-13 (ESV)

"These are hidden reefs at your love feasts, as they feast with you without fear, shepherds feeding themselves; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; fruitless trees in late autumn, twice dead, uprooted; wild waves of the sea, casting up the foam of their own shame; wandering stars, for whom the gloom of utter darkness has been reserved forever."

Here, Jude metaphorically describes the false teachers and their impact on the community, indicating their participation in communal gatherings ("love feasts") without genuine commitment. The mention of them as "hidden reefs" at these feasts implies that their presence and influence could lead believers astray, highlighting the potential for believers to be corrupted by their association and possibly adopting their sinful behaviors.

Jude 1:22-23 (ESV)

"And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh."

This passage directly addresses the responsibility of believers towards others who are struggling or at risk of falling away from their faith. The instruction to "save others by snatching them out of the fire" and to act with mercy towards those who doubt implies that believers can find themselves in sin or close to it. The call to action for believers to intervene and help restore others is a clear indication that the Christian life involves ongoing struggle against sin, even after one has come to faith.

These passages from Jude emphasize the necessity for vigilance, discernment, and mutual support among believers in maintaining their walk in faith and resisting the temptations to sin. They underscore the biblical truth that while believers are saved and being sanctified, they are still in a process of growth and are capable of sinning, necessitating continual reliance on God's grace and the support of the faith community.[/next]

[next]Revelation

The letters to the churches in Revelation 2-3 are direct communications from the Lord to His followers, highlighting both commendations and corrections. Addressed to the "churches," these messages serve as a poignant reminder that believers are not immune to sin and must continually heed the call to repentance. Each letter concludes with a unifying call to action: "Let him who has ears hear what the Spirit says to the churches," emphasizing the ongoing relevance of these divine exhortations to all believers.

Revelation 2:4-5

"But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent." (ESV)

This passage implies that believers in the church at Ephesus, despite having initially demonstrated faith and love, had departed from their first love for Christ. Their need to repent and return to their initial deeds of faithfulness highlights that believers can deviate from their commitment to Christ and engage in sin.

Revelation 2:14-16

"But I have a few things against you: you have some there who hold the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the sons of Israel, so that they might eat food sacrificed to idols and practice sexual immorality. So also you have some who hold the teaching of the Nicolaitans. Therefore repent. If not, I will come to you soon and war against them with the sword of my mouth." (ESV)

This indicates that within the church at Pergamum, there were believers who were led astray into practices contrary to their faith, including idolatry and sexual immorality. The call to repentance serves as a clear indication that believers are capable of sinning and are called to turn away from such practices to walk worthy of their relationship with Christ.

Revelation 2:20-22

"But I have this against you, that you tolerate that woman Jezebel, who calls herself a prophetess and is teaching and seducing my servants to practice sexual immorality and to eat food sacrificed to idols. I gave her time to repent, but she refuses to repent of her sexual immorality. Behold, I will throw her onto a sickbed, and those who commit adultery with her I will throw into great tribulation, unless they repent of her works," (ESV)

In the church at Thyatira, the tolerance of false teaching that led believers into sin is rebuked. The text underscores that believers were misled into sin, indicating their vulnerability to sin and the ongoing necessity of repentance and correction.

Revelation 3:1-3

"'I know your works. You have the reputation of being alive, but you are dead. Wake up, and strengthen what remains and is about to die, for I have not found your works complete in the sight of my God. Remember, then, what you received and heard. Keep it, and repent. If you will not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what hour I will come against you." (ESV)

The believers in Sardis are critiqued for having a reputation of vitality while being spiritually dead. The exhortation to "wake up" and "repent" implies that despite their initial conversion, they had fallen into complacency or sin, needing to be revitalized and to return to faithful practices.

Revelation 3:15-19

"I know your works: you are neither cold nor hot. Would that you were either cold or hot! So, because you are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth. For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. I counsel you to buy from me gold refined by fire, so that you may be rich, and white garments so that you may clothe yourself and the shame of your nakedness may not be seen, and salve to anoint your eyes, so that you may see. Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline, so be zealous and repent." (ESV)

The critique of the Laodicean believers for being "lukewarm" highlights their spiritual complacency and self-sufficiency, contrasting with their actual spiritual poverty. The call to purchase from Christ gold refined in fire, white clothes, and salve for their eyes, together with the call to repentance, underlines that believers can fall into sin through neglect of their dependence on Christ and are in need of His correction and restoration.

The letters to the churches in Revelation poignantly illustrate the Lord's discerning appraisal of His followers, openly identifying sin within the "church" and firmly exhorting believers to amend their ways. This candid revelation underscores a profound biblical truth: being saved does not equate to sinless perfection. Rather, it highlights the believer's ongoing struggle with a sin nature, necessitating a relentless pursuit of repentance, transformation, and reliance on God's grace to overcome the propensity towards sin.

In conclusion, the cited texts from Revelation vividly demonstrate that believers, while redeemed and walking in newness of life, continue to face challenges with sin. This breadth of scripture collectively underscores the dynamic nature of the Christian life—one of ongoing sanctification, where believers are called to vigilance, repentance, and reliance on God's grace. Through various admonitions, encouragements, and calls to righteousness, these passages affirm that the journey with Christ is marked by continuous growth and the pursuit of holiness, challenging the notion of sinless perfection and highlighting the necessity for a dependent, humble walk with God.[/next]