How does a person’s sin harm relationships?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 6, Restore with Gentleness, Question 1, p. 87
Sin acts as a barrier between humanity and God, severing the intimate connection that God desires with each individual. This is poignantly captured in several Biblical passages, illustrating the multifaceted ways sin disrupts our spiritual relationship.
Isaiah 59:2 states, “but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.” Here, the prophet Isaiah emphasizes that sin creates a chasm between the sinner and God. This separation is not merely a physical or emotional distance but a profound spiritual disconnection. Sin acts like a veil, obscuring God’s presence. It underscores the importance of repentance and the pursuit of holiness to restore that broken fellowship.
In Romans 8:7-8, Paul writes, “For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.” This passage brings to light the inherent conflict between a sinful mindset and the will of God. When an individual’s mind is dominated by worldly desires and sinful inclinations, it leads to hostility against God. Such a mindset resists God's authority and guidance, making it impossible to live in a manner that pleases God. This enmity highlights the necessity of spiritual transformation and renewal through the Holy Spirit to align one’s life with God’s will.
James 1:14-15 further illustrates the process and consequence of sin: “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.” James points out that sin begins with individual desires that lead to temptation. When these desires are indulged, they give birth to sin, which ultimately results in spiritual death. This progression underscores the peril of unchecked desires and the need for vigilance in maintaining spiritual integrity.
In summary, sin profoundly damages a person’s relationship with God by creating separation, fostering hostility, and leading to spiritual death. Understanding these truths calls believers to seek continual repentance through confession and rely on God’s grace for spiritual renewal and restoration.
As believers, we can find assurance in the Gospel promise from Ephesians 1:4: “even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.” This verse reminds us that God’s grace is available to restore and renew our relationship with Him, allowing us to live in holiness and closeness to our Creator.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
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