Thursday 31/1/13

James 4:17 ESV

So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

As human, we usually think that sin is transgressing the human laws, to commit grossly and explicit evils such as murdering, stealing, destroying other people's properties. Indeed they are sin, but only the visible & explicit ones.

God requires us much more than that. In Matthew 5-7, to be angry with a brother is sin, and to say to him "you fool" is worthy of hell. Similarly, to lust after a girl in your heart is already adultery. These things cause strifes and fear in the community, breaking the fellowship & good will among people. Instead, we ought to love (care for) our neighbors as ourself, whatever we like others to do to us, do that to them first. Instead of worrying for our wellbeing (what to eat, drink or cloth), we must seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness. They are the things God has created us to do, and He will reward us of all we need. These things bring forth the ideal society where all are brothers and sisters - His Kingdom. That's the basis of heaven.

In summary, sin in God's eyes is as the above verse says: whatever we find we should do, but not do it, is sin. They keep us away from heaven. We must actively do good and make our community a better place.