It begs the question: What is sin? What is our sin?
I’ve heard it said, Every problem is a theological problem. Which means to me a misunderstanding of God and a misunderstanding of the nature of the universe, including humanity — a misunderstanding of reality.
As a student of Christian Science, I feel like I’m getting a clearer understanding of sin, the mental and spiritual nature of sin, and life in general.
Before in my spiritual journey, I thought sin was not following the commandments in the Bible. The commandments about God are basically: do not worship another God. The commandments about others are: do not kill, do not commit adultery, do not lie, do not bear false witness, do not be jealous of what belongs to your neighbor.
The word “sin” in the Hebrew language used in the New Testament means “off the mark,” like in archery. A mistake.
Jesus' life, his words and works, point us to the mental aspects of living our lives. Think about how many times we read “repent”. Repent means change your mind, change your perspective, look at things differently. He encapsulated the commandments into “Love God, and love your neighbor as yourself.” He also said, “Do not commit adultery, nor even think about it!”
That shows to me he’s pointing out the mental aspects of sin. Change the way you think. So now I’m looking at the concept of sin in a broader way. It’s not just physical or behavioral, sin has actually expanded into the mental realm for me. Dang it! It’s gotten bigger!
Mary Baker Eddy, discoverer of the Science of the Christ, in Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, tells us to “examine ourselves.” Look at how and what we’re thinking. How are we seeing God? How are we seeing ourselves and our neighbors? Are we looking at others from a critical point of view or a generous, humble POV?
How does the Christ redeem our sin? Our mistaken view of reality? By correcting false theology – a limited view of God and humanity. Thinking that God is limited or wrathful or capricious. That humanity is broken, fallen, liable to sin and mistakes, or unredeemable. The Christ shows us who God truly is and who we are, as the loved children of God.
So let’s celebrate that the Christ redeems our mistaken views of reality and shows us truly who God is and who we are in relationship to God. A relationship of eternal Love and joy.