Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 108:429 (Jan 1951)
Article: Editorials
Author: Anonymous

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BSac 108:429 (Jan 51) p. 1

Editorials

What and If a Christian Would Sin?

The entire doctrine of sin has never heretofore had an adequate treatment in published theologies and much misconception of truth is traceable to this unfortunate failure. The doctrine of sin on the part of the Christian has had even greater neglect. The plain fact that sin is always sinful regardless of who commits it (indeed, a Christian sins against greater light than does the unsaved) and the fact that the only cure for sin in any instance is through the blood of Christ have actually led to the supposition that there is nothing outstanding in the doctrine of sin as related to Christians.

When attempting an analysis of this specific doctrine all the same, the most distinctive and determining thing to be found in the doctrine—something which is too often completely overlooked—is that which of necessity characterizes it more than anything else, namely, that the Christian is forgiven all sin—past, present, and future the moment he is saved. Since this truth is so misunderstood because unrecognized, it is well to let the Scriptures speak for themselves on such an important theme: “having forgiven you all trespasses” (Col 2:13); “God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Eph 4:32); “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1); “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God” (that is, we are on a peace footing with God—Rom 5:1); “He that believeth on him is not condemned” (John 3:18); “and shall not come into condemnation” (John 5:24); “Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth” (Rom 8:33).

While much might be said respecting each of the above passages, it is obvious how they teach that for the believer

BSac 108:429 (Jan 51) p. 2

the sin question, as respects its condemning power, is settled forever. All this is not only taught in the Scriptures but is necessarily true; for the child of God, one truly saved, is always prepared for his entrance into glory from the moment he is saved, and no sin can rest upon him there.

The Christian who has comprehended the truth concerning himself can say with the great Apostle: “giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light” (Col 1:12). Without fail, however, someone will inq...

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