Answers

By   •   July 16, 2016   •   Topics: ,

Q:

What is the most terrible sin a person can commit? We've been discussing this in our Bible class, and we all agree that some sins are worse than others, but no one has a final answer. What would you say?


A:

If we only think about what happens after we do something wrong, then you’re right; some sins are more hurtful than others. Both the Bible and civilized society acknowledge this; murder (for example) is seen as more serious than lying.

But in God’s eyes all sin is equally serious, because all sin is an act of rebellion against God. This includes not only doing wrong, but also failing to do right. God also sees our hearts, and He knows the sins of greed and jealousy and selfishness that lurk there. The Bible says, “Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13).

One sin, however, is more terrible than any other—and that is the sin of deliberately rejecting God and refusing the gift He freely offers us of salvation in Jesus Christ. Jesus said this is the only sin that God cannot forgive, because we are rejecting the Holy Spirit’s witness about Jesus, and claiming the Holy Spirit is telling a lie. (See Mark 3:28-29.)

The real question, however, is this: Have you sought God’s forgiveness for all your sins? Don’t trust yourself or your own goodness for your salvation—for we can never be good enough. Instead, commit your life to Jesus Christ and trust Him alone for your salvation. Our sin is great—but God’s grace is greater. Jesus said, “For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life” (John 6:40).