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NASB | 1 John 1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | 1 John 1:8 If we say we have no sin [refusing to admit that we are sinners], we delude ourselves and the truth is not in us. [His word does not live in our hearts.] |
Subject: Is sinless perfection possible on earth? |
Bible Note: Part III Gal 5:19-21 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; (20) idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions (21) and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. Yet, Christians are told: Gal 5:24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. What boggles my mind is that many commentaries (not all), argue that the sin nature is still alive even though it has been crucified. Yet, Paul makes it abundantly clear what he means. Consider the following: Col 2:11 In him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of the sinful nature, not with a circumcision done by the hands of men but with the circumcision done by Christ, Vincent says of this verse: "The fleshly circumcision removed only a portion of the body. In spiritual circumcision, through Christ, the whole corrupt, carnal nature is put away like a garment which is taken off and laid aside." So, Scripture is clear that the power of the sinful nature has been destroyed, but apparently we can empower it again by choosing to make our selves slaves to it. Thus, Scripture says: Rom 6:12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Rom 13:14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. 1Pe 1:14-15 As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. (15) But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; My conclusion can only be that it is possible to sin or not to sin as a Christian. We can choose to live according to the Spirit or according to the flesh. But, we are commanded to live according to the Spirit. I hope these posts answer your question my friend! Your Brother in Christ, Tim Moran |