What does it mean to be a slave to sin before knowing Christ?

Before coming to faith in Christ, individuals are described as slaves to sin, which signifies a complete inability to escape the dominion of sin. Romans 6:16 states, 'Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness.' This slavery results in spiritual death and separation from God. However, through Christ’s redemptive work, believers are liberated, receiving the Holy Spirit who empowers them to reject sin and walk in obedience. This transformative experience marks a shift from bondage to freedom.