November 8, 2009 by bonlou
When is sin not sin? I’d like to read your comments on this question. What do you think?
Update: Nov. 13, 2009
I have only had one comment so far on this. I’m wondering where is everyone? Maybe I didn’t write it correctly. What I’m asking is: When do you think it is okay to sin? Is there any time or circumstance when it would be okay?
There are many “gospel” messages being circulated today. In some circles one would believe that if we simply say “Jesus come into my heart,” we are saved. They do not teach the whole gospel.
Click on the “The True Gospel Message” tab on the top of the page.
In ABOLISH ANXIETY, I’ve written a devotional to guide you as you search for the inner peace we all desire. When times are trying we need to find that special calmness deep inside that only God can provide.
Click on “Free E-Book” tab at top of page.
Fear of Fear is another FREE ebook that you can download. This is based on my 5-part series of the same name.
1. What it Looks Like
2. Cause and Key
3. Blame the Devil?
4. Hope and Help
5. Take Action!
Click on the “Free E-book” tab at the top of the page.
hatchcreek.com Bible blog 
I am not religious, but I do have a strong sense of personal ethics. I spend a lot of time thinking about right and wrong, particularly regarding public ethics.
I think a just and reasonable person will know a misdeed because he feels bad in doing it. I think a perceptive person will know a misdeed because it makes other person(s) feel bad. I think whatever purpose we have here does not include making ourselves and others feel negatively.
Surely, if we have a reason for being, it is to do something positive. It would make sense that that reason includes uplifting each others’ hearts, minds and lives.
I have the same question about the law. For example: is it OK to drive faster than the speed limit if it is not harmful to other drivers? What if your client needs your help at his plant? Surely it is a good thing to get there sooner.
In each case I think you have to follow your heart.
IB
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Following your heart is one way to live life. It doesn’t always work out well though doing it that way. When we follow our heart we are actually following our emotions, and our emotions can get us in trouble. They can lie to us and create havoc in our lives.
I think we are born with a conscience, and we do know to some extent what is right and wrong, because we learn things from our parents, in school, and from other role models that help guide us in our lives. Also, the Bible says in Romans 2:15 that requirements of the law are written on our hearts. So, it is natural for us to know when we are doing wrong.
We can live on that level and like you said try to do the right things as we go along the way, because we want to be just and fair, and also tuned into other’s feelings and not hurt them. This is one thing that God tells us to do in the Bible.
I Thessalonians 5:11, (NIV) “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up…”
You talked about driving faster than the speed limit and asking if that is ok.
I’m taking the position, for the sake of this discussion, that God is the creator of all mankind. That He has given us the Bible as an instruction book on how to live our lives. That His Word is true and he choose men to write down what He wanted as He inspired them. Also, that if the Bible is true and is actually God’s Word to us, then it is the authority. With that said, I will try to answer your question about speeding. 🙂
We will take a look at Romans 13:1-7
Rom 13:1-7 NASB Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. (2) Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves. (3) For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; (4) for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. (5) Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience’ sake. (6) For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing. (7) Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor.
I think it is clear in the above scriptures that we are to obey the law. We are to pay our taxes and do whatever the governing authorities have over us. The only time we would be obligated to disobey the law is if that law goes against the law of God. So, in the case of speeding, we are to obey the speed limit. No excuses. 🙂 The speed limit is made by those in authority over us and they have good reasons for each speed limit they set. They are to protect us, and to protect others. So, it is up to us to obey them. If we don’t we are putting ourselves and others at risk which is not a responsible thing to do.
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