Question:
Dr. Lindstrom, In 1 John,1-8,”If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us”. This puzzles me when I read in chapter 3 of the same book, verse 6, “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him”. Also verse 9 of the same chapter, “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin”. Please help me understand this. Early in the book of 1 John, it seems to tell us that everyone sins, which I believe is correct, but I’m having problems with the verses that seem to be saying that Christians don’t sin. Please try to clear this up for me. I value your opinion greatly.
Answer:
This speaks of the two natures of the believer. A fallen nature that continues to sin and a divine nature that cannot sin. Read Ephesians 4:20-22