MEMORY VERSE: ‘Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.’ 1 John 3:4.
STUDY HELP: Faith & Works, pages 31-33.
LESSON AIM: To study the Bible’s definition of sin.
‘The soul must first be convicted of sin before the sinner will feel a desire to come to Christ. “Sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). “I had not known sin, but by the law” (Romans 7:7). When the commandment came home to Saul’s conscience, sin revived, and he died. He saw himself condemned by the law of God. The sinner cannot be convinced of his guilt unless he understands what constitutes sin. It is impossible for an individual to experience Bible sanctification while he holds that if he believes in Christ it is immaterial whether he obeys God’s law or disobeys it.’ Faith & Works, page 31.
1. What is the only definition in the Bible for sin? 1 John 3:4.
NOTE: ‘A terrible doom awaits the sinner, and therefore it is necessary that we know what sin is, in order that we may escape from its power. John says, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). Here we have the true definition of sin; it is “the transgression of the law.” How often the sinner is urged to leave his sins, and come to Jesus; but has the messenger who would lead him to Christ clearly pointed out the way? Has he clearly pointed out the fact that “sin is the transgression of the law,” and that he must repent and forsake the breaking of God’s commandments? ’ Faith & Works, page 117.
2. How does Paul explain the purpose of God’s law? Romans 7:7. Compare Romans 3:20, last part.
NOTE: ‘The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20. In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.’ Great Controversy, page 467.