Sin is more than breaking religious rules. It is our rejection of God and his good way of life. Sin includes the harm we do, the good we leave undone, and the attitudes and choices that pull us away from loving God and loving other people.
Sin damages relationships with God, other people, ourselves and creation. It can be personal, such as lying, selfishness or cruelty. It can also gather into habits, cultures and systems that keep hurting people. All of us are affected by sin, and all of us contribute to the brokenness in some way.
Temptation often begins with a normal desire pursued in a harmful way. We want security, pleasure, recognition or control, then try to get it without trusting God or considering the damage to other people. Sin promises freedom but often leaves guilt, shame, fear and distance behind.
Jesus does not ask us to deny the problem or fix ourselves before coming to him. He invites us to confess what is true, receive forgiveness and turn around. At The Lakes Church, we understand repentance as changing direction with Jesus, allowing him to restore what sin has damaged and teach us a better way to live.
If you have questions, you can ask us anything at https://thelakes.org.au/contact-us/