What does it mean to be a sinner in the biblical sense?

Biblically, being a sinner encompasses a profound awareness of one’s own sinful state and a recognition of the enormity of that sin in relation to God’s holiness. The publican in Luke 18:13 encapsulates this understanding; he stood before God, beating his chest, and pleading for mercy, acknowledging his unworthiness. A true recognition of sin involves seeing it as a cosmic crime against a holy God, which warrants divine judgment. Moreover, a sinner is aware that they cannot remedy their own unrighteousness and must depend upon the grace and righteousness found only in Christ. This leads to a heart that desires to follow Him, as stated in John 10:27, 'My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.' Such a posture is one of humility and dependence.