09.02.2017 Views

The Golden Chain - Robert J. Wieland

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

However, this is not to say that we should try to<br />

define sin as merely outward acts of transgression.<br />

While Ellen White says that the "only definition of<br />

sin" is John's phrase "transgression of the law" (1<br />

John 5:4, KJV), the Greek word is anomia which<br />

means rebellion or lawlessness. It is deep within<br />

the human heart, even beneath the layer of<br />

consciousness. Sin is a condition of rebellion<br />

against God, more than mere outward alienation.<br />

While on the cross Christ cried out "My God, My<br />

God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" but that<br />

alienation from God which He felt did not mean<br />

that He rebelled against God. We have "all sinned."<br />

In our spiritual pride we may not want to admit that<br />

we have rebelled against God, but we have. Christ<br />

felt the full force of our alienation from His Father,<br />

but He never participated in our rebellion against<br />

Him.<br />

4. What is the doctrine of the "Immaculate<br />

Conception"?<br />

New Testament righteousness by faith is<br />

138

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!