Bible Definitions of Sin

Sin is a topic which seems to occupy the minds of people who are trying to do the right things in their lives. When someone uses the word sin, what does it mean to you? You might be surprised what the Bible says concerning the topic of sin. We thought you might like to know how the Bible defines sin and where some of the references are. The Scriptures say sin is:

Perverting things that are right

Job 33:27 He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned, and perverted that which was right...

Not just something you do, it can be the words you speak.

Psa.36:3 The words of his mouth are iniquity (sin) and deceit: he hath left off to be wise, and to do good.

Rebelling against God

1Sa.15:23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

Breaking (transgressing, disobeying) God's Commandments or laws

1Sa.15:24 And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice.

1Jo.3:4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.

Rom.5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.

Despising one's neighbor

Pro.14:21 He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he.

Pride and arrogance

Pro.21:4 An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.

Foolish Thoughts

Pro.24:9 The thought of foolishness is sin: and the scorner is an abomination to men.

Things that are done with a weak conscience

Rom.14:23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.

Respecting someone for what they have rather than treating all people equally

Jam.2:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

Knowing what you should do and not doing it

Jam.4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.

Things that are not done righteously (God's righteousness)

1Jo.5:17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.