The Essence Of Sin

"Satan disguises submission to himself under the ruse of personal autonomy. Ne never asks us to become his servants. Never once did the serpent say to Eve, “I want to be your master.” The shift in commitment is never from Christ to evil; it is always from Christ to self. And instead of his will, self-interest no rules and what I want reigns. And that is the essence of sin." – This Day With The Master, Dennis F. Kinlaw

Dr. Dennis Kinlaw was an accomplished Methodist pastor, professor, administrator, evangelist, teacher, and author. The senior pastor at the church we attend shared that quote the other day. When I read it, it was a great illumination for me. Another way to look at what it is that tempts us to not choose God.

"For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world." - 1 John 2:16

Those same things by which Jesus was tempted by the devil in the wilderness in Matthew 4. To choose Himself - His own interests and not obedience to God. The Word is replete with warnings for us to be on our guard against our old nature and its penchant for protecting its own interests and wellbeing. 

"Therefore, do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble." - Matthew 6:31-34

Another verse that comes to mind is .... 

"Then Jesus said to His disciples, if anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." - Matthew 16:24

My encouragement is to be careful my friends lest you be tempted by that which seems reasonable and spiritually harmless. Choosing to embrace self-interest, as reasonable as it seems, is your first step away from your walk with God.

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone