Everyone uses the word "sin," but what does it actually mean? Pastor Heath Lambert kicks off 2026 by answering this fundamental question using Romans 3:23-24, revealing why sin is more than just breaking rules - it's falling short of God's glory, and why that matters for the gospel.
Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction: First episode of 2026
0:49 - The question: What is sin?
1:15 - We use words we don't really understand
1:52 - Disagreement about what sins are
2:45 - Romans 3:23: Falling short of God's glory
3:51 - The standard: God's perfect holiness
4:46 - Sin as falling short of the standard
5:11 - Practical reality 1: God defines sin, not us
5:50 - Don't add to God's list of sins
6:06 - Example: Is eating pizza a sin?
6:30 - Don't cross off sins from God's list
6:53 - God's glory as the standard in His Word
7:07 - The result: Guilt and punishment
7:25 - Romans 3:24: Justified by grace through redemption
7:56 - Redemption as economic transaction
8:46 - Final answer: Sin, guilt, and gospel hope
Key Topics Covered
The Universal Word - How everyone uses "sin" but with different meanings
Common Misconceptions - The property example and sexual behavior debates
Romans 3:23 Definition - Falling short of the glory of God
The Divine Standard - God's infinite righteousness, glory, and holiness
Two Dangerous Errors - Adding sins God didn't name and removing sins He did
The Pizza Illustration - Why we can't make up our own list of sins
Cultural Pushback - When society rejects biblical definitions of sin
God's Word as Authority - Why Scripture alone defines what sin is
Sin as Debt - The financial metaphor for our spiritual condition
The Gospel Solution - Romans 3:24 and redemption through Christ
Justified by Grace - How Christ's righteousness covers our sin debt
Scripture References
Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
Romans 3:24 - Justified by grace through redemption in Christ Jesus
About The Ten Commandments Book
Heath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.
Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandments
Like this episode? Subscribe for more biblical teaching from Marked by Grace. Share your thoughts in the comments below about how understanding sin as falling short of God's glory changes your perspective. Happy New Year!
Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to markedbygrace@fbcjax.com
