January 9 – The Mystery of Sin

Thou art the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee so: thou wast upon the holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the stones of fire. Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created, till iniquity was found in thee. — Ezekiel 28:14-15 (KJV)

The origin of sin is a profound mystery, one that defies explanation and resists any attempt to rationalize it. Yet, enough has been revealed in Scripture about its beginnings and its ultimate resolution to affirm God’s justice and love in addressing this terrible reality. The Word of God makes it unequivocally clear that He is not responsible for the existence of sin. Sin is an intruder, without justification or legitimate cause. Any attempt to excuse it is tantamount to defending it. Were there any valid excuse for sin, it would cease to be sin.

The Bible defines sin as “whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4 KJV). Sin originates from a principle in direct opposition to God’s law of love, which serves as the foundation of His government.

Sin first arose when a created being, Lucifer, sought to exalt himself. As the covering cherub, he was entrusted with a position of honor and privilege. Yet, pride entered his heart, and he aspired to elevate himself above God. He sought to turn the loyalty of the heavenly beings away from their Creator, desiring their worship for himself. In this way, he deceived many of the angels. The same spirit of rebellion was introduced to humanity when he tempted Adam and Eve to question God’s word and distrust His goodness. Through their disobedience, the shadow of sin spread across the world, plunging humanity into sorrow and separation from God.

Sin originated in a universe created perfect. However, its cause remains unexplainable. Even at the final judgment, when the books are opened and every deed is revealed, the origin of sin will remain without justification. On that day, it will be evident to all that no valid reason for sin has ever existed.

When Satan, his angels, and those who have chosen to align themselves with him face their final condemnation, every mouth will be silenced. From the first rebel to the last transgressor, none will have an answer when questioned about their defiance of God’s law. The utter silence will testify to the baselessness of sin and the righteousness of God’s ways.

Sin’s existence is a tragic enigma, yet its defeat is certain. As we contemplate its origin and devastating effects, let us cling to God’s promises and trust in His plan to eradicate it forever, restoring the harmony of His perfect creation.