Hamartiology is the study of sin and evil according to the Bible. It comes from the Greek hamartia meaning “to miss the mark” and logos meaning “word, study, or reasoning.” In Christian theology, hamartiology looks at the origin, nature, effects and consequences of sin as it relates to mankind’s relationship with God. Here is an overview of some of the key biblical teachings on hamartiology:
The Origin of Sin
According to the Bible, sin originated with the disobedience and rebellion of Adam and Eve toward God in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). Though created good and without sin, Adam and Eve were tempted by Satan to eat the forbidden fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. By disobeying God’s command, sin entered the world and corrupted all of creation including human nature (Romans 5:12). This “original sin” is the root cause of mankind’s inherent sinful condition.
The Nature of Sin
The Bible presents sin as lawlessness (1 John 3:4), unbelief (Romans 14:23), missing the mark or standard set by God (Romans 3:23), anything not done in faith (Romans 14:23), rebellion against God (Deuteronomy 9:7), transgression of God’s commandments (1 John 3:4) and independence from God. Sin can take many forms inwardly such as evil desires and selfish motives as well as outward actions. At the core, sin stems from unbelief, pride, self-reliance and living independently of God.
The Effects of Sin
According to Scripture, the consequences of sin are severe. Immediately after the first sin, Adam and Eve realized they were naked and hid from God (Genesis 3:7-10). Their relationship and fellowship with God was broken. They were banished from Eden and became subject to divine punishment, pain, difficult labor, sorrow and death (Genesis 3:16-19). Every human being has inherited the effects of original sin. Romans 5:12 tells us that through Adam, sin entered the world and so death spread to all men. Mankind’s nature was corrupted and is therefore inclined toward sinful disobedience against God. The Bible describes the condition of the human heart as deceitful and desperately sick (Jeremiah 17:9). Our iniquities have separated us from God (Isaiah 59:2). The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Without intervention, the consequences of sin ultimately lead to eternal separation from God.
The Universality of Sin
The Bible clearly teaches that all people are sinners by nature and by choice. Sin is universal to mankind. Romans 3:23 states that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” From birth, human nature is corrupted by the effects of original sin. People are born with a sinful nature into a fallen world. Therefore, everyone sins as soon as they are capable of moral action (Romans 3:10-12). Only Jesus lived a sinless life (2 Corinthians 5:21, Hebrews 4:15). No one achieves righteousness through keeping the law (Romans 3:20). Sin is not confined to outward actions. Even our inner thoughts can be sinful (Matthew 15:19). Sin is universal, and no one is exempt from requiring God’s forgiveness and redemption.
Salvation from Sin
The central message of the Bible is that Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners and provide the forgiveness and redemption they could never earn or merit on their own. Though originally perfect, mankind became corrupted by sin. But God showed his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us (Romans 5:8). Salvation and forgiveness for sins comes only through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior (John 3:16). We must repent and believe in Christ (Mark 1:15). When we turn from our sins and turn to follow Christ, we are saved by God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness. Through Christ’s redeeming work on the cross, the power and effects of sin are broken, and humanity’s relationship with God is restored for all those who put their faith in him (Colossians 1:21-22).
Sin in the Life of a Christian
When a person places their faith in Jesus Christ, they are forgiven, redeemed and declared righteous before God (2 Corinthians 5:21). They receive eternal life (John 3:16). However, Christians still struggle with sin in this life. Our sinful flesh wages war against the Spirit (Romans 7:15-20). We won’t be fully freed from the presence of sin until we are glorified with Christ. Through the indwelling Holy Spirit, believers are empowered to resist temptation and walk in greater obedience (Galatians 5:16-17). As we grow in Christ, we manifest the fruit of the Spirit more, die to self and sin less. But the struggle with sin remains until we go to be with the Lord. Even the Apostle Paul struggled (Romans 7:14-20). When Christians sin, we can turn back to Christ in repentance and receive forgiveness (1 John 1:9). There is now no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1).
Hamartiology and the Gospel
The biblical doctrine of sin accentuates mankind’s universal need for salvation. It highlights our inability to save ourselves through good works or self-righteousness. A proper understanding of the gravity of sin makes Christ’s redeeming work more significant. The holiness and justice of God require that sins be paid for. But God’s love and mercy made a way for us to be forgiven through Christ. Accurately comprehending the tragedy of sin helps us see and cherish the glory of the cross all the more. It instills humility, gratitude and greater devotion to Christ. Studying hamartiology aids our evangelism efforts by showing people why we all desperately need a Savior regardless of who we are. It teaches us to lovingly point others to salvation in Jesus Christ.
In summary, hamartiology provides a biblical explanation of the origin, nature, effects, consequences and universal reality of sin according to Scripture. It illuminates mankind’s inherent sin problem and need for redemption. Hamartiology highlights our inability to save ourselves. Most importantly, it magnifies the redeeming work of Jesus Christ who alone provides forgiveness and eternal life to all who repent and believe in Him by faith. The doctrine of sin is foundational to grasping the good news of salvation in Christ.