Could Christianity Retire "Sin"



Maybe it's an inaccurate observation, but I don't think there is as much discussion or debate about sin as there was in times past. When I came across an academic who was writing, not in an academic publication but a Catholic one, and was discussing sin I realized it has been a while since I've seen a focus on what was once a favorite topic.

Not that it's necessary for readers here, but I'll review why there has to be "sin" in the faith. Remember that Jesus suffered and died on the cross and said he did this to forgive us for our sins." Now, he supposedly said the deal was between himself and those who believed in him. If the old sins are no longer sins, there need to be news ones. Otherwise, the "suffering on the cross" accomplished nothing. 

I grew up in a community and church where sin was topic number one. It was a thing. Working a tractor on Sunday was a sin as was playing cards, ballroom dancing and any alcohol. It was taught that when the Bible used the word "wine", it meant grape juice. I can't recall much if any conversation about Jesus on the cross forgiving these sins. I hate to tell Jesus, but it doesn't seem like people are all that grateful.  

Where is sin today and what is it? The Catholic link referred to the "sin" on both sides of the immigration issue. It is a sin that the borders are not secure but also a sin to kill innocent people in enforcement. He did not mention abortion or birth control, two sins often connected to Catholicism. When I attend the liberal Protestant church near me, I've noticed the word "sin" is mentioned half a dozen times each Sunday. Never has anyone behind the pulpit said what constitutes a sin. Why is the word "sin" still used when there is no operational definition? 

I guess I've already answered that, there has to be sin or there is no point in the Jesus story. Even if we don't know what it is, it has to exist.

Perhaps the discomfort in naming sins is that then there is an obligation to name sinners. Things get really complicated going there because our President has said he has never felt the need to ask for forgiveness for anything. I will not review the "sins" he appears to be guilty of. The President's sins being what they are makes it all the more difficult to condemn sin and sinners.

Maybe we are headed toward a time when the Bible will be edited again just as it has been since it was written. An updated version will relate the story of Jesus suffering and dying on the cross, Instead of him saying he was doing it to forgive our sins he could just say he'd rather not get into that.


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