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Frank Tate

A Believer Wouldn’t Do That!

Frank Tate 1 min read
#Grace #Justification #Sanctification
14 Articles 1,990 Sermons
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Frank Tate
Frank Tate 1 min read
14 articles 1,990 sermons
What does the Bible say about sin in believers?

The Bible acknowledges that believers can commit any sin, but they are sustained by Christ's righteousness.

The Scriptures indicate that believers are not exempt from sin, as evidenced by the examples of David and Peter. David, despite being described as a man after God's own heart, committed grave sins such as adultery and murder (2 Samuel 11). Similarly, Peter, who initially professed faith in Christ, later denied Him and acted hypocritically, illustrating that even the strongest believers can fall into sin. The important distinction, however, is that God protects true believers from apostasy, ensuring they remain grounded in their salvation. Instead of glorifying our own righteousness, we should humbly acknowledge our sinful nature and trust in Christ as our righteousness, which never falters.

2 Samuel 11, Galatians 2:11-14

How do we know that believers can sin like unbelievers?

Believers can indeed commit any sin except apostasy, as illustrated by Biblical figures like David and Peter.

The truth that believers can sin like unbelievers is supported by the biblical accounts of individuals such as David and Peter. David, who was favored by God, engaged in adultery and murder without immediate remorse (2 Samuel 11), indicating that faith does not prevent a person from moral failure. Peter's denial of Christ and subsequent hypocrisy (Galatians 2:11-14) further illustrates that even those who have strong faith can succumb to sin. However, the key difference lies in the assurance of God's grace, which sustains believers and prevents them from falling away completely. This doctrine emphasizes reliance on Christ's righteousness rather than one's capacity for moral perfection.

2 Samuel 11, Galatians 2:11-14

Why is it important to understand that believers can sin?

Understanding that believers can sin protects us from pride and fosters humility towards God's grace.

Recognizing that even believers can commit serious sins is crucial for maintaining a proper perspective on grace and righteousness. When we assert that 'a believer wouldn't do that,' we risk becoming prideful and relying on our righteousness rather than acknowledging our inherent sinfulness. The reality is that all believers, regardless of their faith status, are capable of moral failure; they are only kept from apostasy by the sovereign grace of God. This understanding drives home the necessity of continual reliance on Christ for righteousness and encourages us to extend grace to others, as we are all equally in need of God's mercy. This perspective fosters humility within the body of Christ and emphasizes community accountability and support.

Romans 7:18-19, Galatians 6:1

    Let us never again be guilty of saying, “A believer wouldn’t do that.” Oh yes they will!  When we say such a thing we are trying to take some credit for our righteousness.

    A believer will commit any sin an unbeliever will commit with the exception of apostacy (and only because God keeps them from it).  David, the man after God’s own heart, committed adultery and murder and didn’t even feel guilty about it for a time.  “Just Lot” (II Peter 2:7) chose to separate from Abraham and live in the well watered plain of Sodom and Gomorrah.

    Peter who confessed all of his hope was in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, also denied he even knew the Lord Jesus and later, by his actions, denied salvation by grace without works when he quit eating and fellowshipping with the Gentiles when some Jews arrived at the dinner.  Yes, the strongest of believers will commit any kind of sin.

    So rather than say, “A believer wouldn’t do that”, let’s say “I am nothing but sin but Christ is my righteousness and He will never fail me.”  

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