Hamartiology is the study of sin and the human condition. It looks at how wrongdoing entered human life, how it affects us and our communities, and what consequences it brings for our lives and destiny. The Bible often describes sin with a phrase that literally means “missing the mark.” This shows that sin is not just about breaking rules - it’s about failing to live the way God intended, falling short of the goodness and purpose for which we were created.
Throughout history and across cultures, people recognize that humans are not perfect. Scripture says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). This means that no one fully lives up to the standard of love, goodness, and righteousness God designed for humanity. Hamartiology explains why this is true for everyone, how it shows up in personal choices and society, and why humans cannot fix it on their own.
The Bible describes sin as rebellion against God and as turning away from the life He intended for us. Sin is not just a legal mistake or rule-breaking; it is a broken relationship with God, with others, and even with ourselves.
We also inherit a fallen nature from our first parents, Adam and Eve. Romans 5:12 explains, “Sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” We are born into a world affected by this brokenness, with a human nature that is weak and inclined to make wrong choices.
Not all sins are equal, but all sin separates us from God. Every act of disobedience, whether big or small, affects our relationship with Him and our ability to live fully in His life.
Studying sin may seem discouraging, but it is essential to understanding salvation. When we grasp the depth of human weakness, we can better appreciate the healing power of Jesus Christ, who restores what sin has damaged. As Romans 3:23–24 says, “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Hamartiology shows us why we need God, why His mercy is essential, and how salvation through Christ is not just forgiveness but the restoration of our true life and purpose.
A key Scripture on Hamartiology is Romans 3:23-24, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."
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