Bible Question: Is all sin equal? Where in the Bible does it say that no sin is greater than another, and is this stated in the context of Jesus' willingness to forgive us our sins, or in the context of the gravity of particular sins? We know that some commandments are greater than others, so shouldn't the violation be similarly of greater import? |
Bible Answer: The law was a comprehensive whole made up of civil, moral, and ceremonial requirements. To break it at one point was to break it in its totality. Since man cannot measure up to the law's lofty demands, it brings him face to face with his sin. In marked contrast to the law, grace is God's unmerited favor. Through Christ, God provides for man what he could not provide for himself. Jesus came to pay a debt He didn't owe because man owed a debt he couldn't pay. Whether it was the Old Testament of law or the New Testament of grace, God has spoken. That in itself is an astounding and humbling reality. God was not obligated to speak. He was not our debtor. Man surely did not deserve a word from heaven. After all, we were sinful, disobedient, and at enmity with God. God has spoken with finality through His Son. It is a completed and perfect message. Nothing has to be added and nothing has to be changed. It simply has to be understood and obeyed. Matthew 22:36-40, "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? "Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." |