So we, being many, are one body in Christ,
and every one members one of another.
Romans 12:5
If you ask 10 different people this question, you would likely get 10 different answers. People’s definition of what sin is, varies greatly. Some people say that sin is wasting food, not going to church on Sundays or that it’s simply unbelief. None of these definitions are biblically based.
The bible defines sin as follows,
1 John 3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.
To transgress, means to go against. So when we don’t follow the laws of the Bible through the teaching of Jesus Christ, we become sinners. Some common examples are, the act of homosexuality, adultery, having an abortion, murder, celebrating pagan holidays like Christmas or Easter, eating unclean foods such as pork, catfish, shrimp, shopping on Saturdays (the Sabbath day). These acts would all be considered sin as they all defy laws written in the Bible.
Contrary to popular belief, Jesus Christ did not come and do away with the laws of God.
Some people will say that because they haven’t killed anyone or done anything similarly evil, they are not a bad person or a sinner. However, the bible says,
1 John 1:8-10 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (10) If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
Acts 3:19 Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.