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Dealing With Sin
Contributed by Rev. Samuel Arimoro on May 19, 2025 (message contributor)
Summary: Sin is a deadly virus that destroys the soul, but God has given us the cure through Christ. To walk in freedom, we must acknowledge sin, confess it, and depend on the Holy Spirit to overcome it.
DEALING WITH SIN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Romans 6:12-14
Supporting Texts: 1 John 1:8-10, Psalm 51:1-4, Romans 3:23-24, Galatians 5:16-17, Proverbs 28:13
INTRODUCTION:
Sin is the greatest enemy of man’s soul. It separates us from God, opens doors to the devil, and hinders us from walking in divine purpose. From the fall of Adam to the present day, sin has always brought destruction, guilt, and bondage to mankind. The Bible clearly states that “all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). No one is exempt from this battle.
Yet, God in His love has not left us without help. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, He made a way for our sins to be forgiven and for us to walk in victory. However, even believers must be vigilant to continually deal with sin through repentance, confession, and a renewed mind. Sin must not be entertained—it must be crucified.
This message is a call to honesty, humility, and holiness. We must confront sin, not cover it. We must deal with sin, not dwell in it. Let us explore how to overcome the power of sin and live victoriously in Christ.
1. ACKNOWLEDGE THE REALITY OF SIN
To deal with sin, we must first admit its presence and power.
a) Sin Is Universal and Subtle
Everyone has sinned. Sin is not always loud—it can be silent and secret, growing subtly in the heart (Romans 3:23).
b) Self-Deception Is Dangerous
Denying sin only empowers it. When we claim we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and prevent healing (1 John 1:8).
c) Sin Is a Barrier to Fellowship with God
Sin disrupts our communion with God and prevents our prayers from being answered (Isaiah 59:2).
d) Conviction Is a Gift, Not a Curse
When the Holy Spirit convicts us of sin, it is an act of love meant to bring us to repentance (John 16:8).
Biblical Example – David initially tried to cover his sin with Bathsheba, but when he acknowledged it, he received mercy (Psalm 51:3-4).
2. CONFESS AND REPENT FROM SIN
God does not despise a broken and contrite heart.
a) Genuine Confession Brings Mercy
When we confess our sins sincerely, God is faithful and just to forgive us (1 John 1:9).
b) Repentance Is a Change of Heart and Direction
True repentance means turning away from sin and aligning our hearts with God's will (Acts 3:19).
c) Repentance Must Be Prompt
The longer sin stays, the deeper its roots grow. Prompt repentance keeps our hearts tender before God (Hebrews 3:13).
d) Do Not Excuse or Justify Sin
Blaming others or circumstances for our sin hinders deliverance. Sin must be owned and renounced (Proverbs 28:13).
Biblical Example – The prodigal son came to himself, returned to his father, and confessed his sins (Luke 15:18-21).
3. RELY ON THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
We cannot overcome sin by human strength; we need divine help.
a) The Flesh and the Spirit Are Opposed
The flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, creating an internal battle (Galatians 5:17)
b) Walking in the Spirit Overcomes the Flesh
Daily submission to the Holy Spirit empowers us to resist sinful desires (Galatians 5:16).
c) Grace Teaches Us to Say No to Sin
The same grace that saves us also strengthens us to deny ungodliness and live holy (Titus 2:11-12).
d) Spiritual Disciplines Strengthen the Inner Man
Regular prayer, fasting, and meditation on the Word of God build spiritual resilience against sin (Psalm 119:11).
Biblical Example – Joseph fled from Potiphar’s wife because he feared God and was strengthened within (Genesis 39:7-12).
4. REPLACE SIN WITH RIGHTEOUS LIVING
The goal is not just to stop sinning, but to start living right.
a) Put Off the Old Man, Put On the New
We must deliberately take off sinful habits and cultivate godly character (Ephesians 4:22-24).
b) Fill the Heart with God's Word
The Word is both a sword and shield against sin. A Word-filled heart is a sin-resistant heart (Psalm 119:11).
c) Surround Yourself with Godly Influence
Righteous company sharpens us and discourages compromise (1 Corinthians 15:33).
d) Be Quick to Restore When You Fall
Don't wallow in guilt—rise, repent, and return to God’s embrace (Proverbs 24:16).
Biblical Example – Zacchaeus, after encountering Jesus, made restitution and embraced a new lifestyle (Luke 19:8-9).
5. LIVE DAILY WITH ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE
Understanding the consequences of sin should drive us to holiness.
a) Sin Has Earthly and Eternal Consequences
Beyond its immediate pain, unrepented sin leads to spiritual death (Romans 6:23).
b) We Are Called to Be Holy
God’s standard for His children is not compromise but holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16).
c) Fear God and Shun Evil
A holy fear of God keeps us from casual sin and pushes us toward righteousness (Proverbs 8:13).