How can I know if something is a sin? | What is Sin - Right and Wrong | GotQuestions.org

Today's question is, how can I know if something is a sin?

In this video I'll answer that question from a biblical perspective.

And afterwards I'll share some helpful resources, so stick around until the end.

There are two issues involved in this question—the things the Bible specifically mentions and declares to be

sin, and those the Bible does not directly address.

Scriptural lists of various sins include Proverbs 6, verses 16 -19, Galatians

5, verses 19 -21, and 1 Corinthians 6, verses 9 -10.

There can be no doubt that these passages present the activities as sinful, things God does not approve

of—murder, adultery, lying, stealing, etc.

There is no doubt the Bible presents such things as sin.

The more difficult issue is in determining what is sinful in areas the Bible does not directly address.

When the Bible does not cover a certain subject, we have some general principles in His Word to guide us.

First, when there is no specific scriptural reference, it is good to ask not whether a certain thing is wrong,

but rather if it is definitely good.

The Bible says, for example, that we are to make the most of every opportunity.

Colossians 4, verse 5,.

Our few days on earth are so short and precious in relation to eternity that we ought never to waste time on

selfish things, but to use it only on what is helpful for building others up according to their

needs.

Ephesians 4, verse 29.

A good test is to determine whether we can honestly, in good conscience, ask God to bless and use the

particular activity for His own good purposes.

So, whatever you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.

1 Corinthians 10, verse 31.

If there is room for doubt as to whether it pleases God, then it is best to give it up.

Everything that does not come from faith is sin.

Romans 14, verse 23.

We need to remember that our bodies, as well as our souls, have been redeemed and belong.

To God.

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from

God?

You are not your own, you were bought at a price.

Therefore, honor God with your body.

1 Corinthians 6, verses 19 -20.

This great truth should have a real bearing on what we do and where we go.

In addition, we must evaluate our actions not only in relation to God, but also in relation to their effect

on our family, our friends, and other people in general.

Even if a particular thing may not hurt us personally, if it harmfully influences or affects someone else, it is a

sin.

It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall.

We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves.

Romans 14, verse 21.

Chapter 15, verse 1.

Finally, remember that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior, and nothing else can be allowed to take

priority over our conformity to His will.

No habit or recreation or ambition can be allowed to have undue control over our lives.

Only Christ has that authority.

Everything is permissible for me, but not everything is beneficial.

Everything is permissible for me, but I will not be mastered by anything.

1 Corinthians 6, verse 12.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving

thanks to God the Father through Him.

Colossians 3, verse 17.

Want to learn more?

Subscribe so you don't miss the next video!

Visit GotQuestions .org for more great content.

And check out the details section below this video, there is one book I recommend, along with several related articles.

If you'd like to learn about Bible Munch, or if you're interested in Bite -sized devotionals, subscribe to Bible Munch on YouTube, it's linked right

here.

Now remember, Got questions?

The Bible has answers, and we'll help you find them!