What is sin?

When we hear “sin,” we tend to think of a serious crime, but the problem we should be focusing on is “the violation of the law.” [In Japanese, sin and crime are the same word.] Every country has its own laws. Rules like "do not litter" are common pretty much anywhere you go. Laws are designed to protect the safety of the individual and the greater community. Other “laws” include the laws of physics, such as "objects fall due to gravity," and the laws of nature such as "water and light are required for seeds to grow." Like those laws, God's perfection is a law unto itself. As the laws of a country are the standard for its citizens, God's law is the "standard" for all people. God's law is the guide for a person to have the best life. If we who are under God's law, fail to keep it and go our own way, we are guilty of sin. Ever since Adam and Eve, we have all been in the state of sin from birth, unable to live according to God's righteous standards. Be it small "white lies" or a horrific crime, our sin keeps us away from God. This can be seen in our relationships with other people as well. Even when we want to do what is right, we sometimes cause pain for others. Because of this sinful state, true harmony with others, oneself, nature, and God is impossible. This discord is a result of The Fall that Adam and Eve experienced long ago. Like them, we find ourselves running from God. We have to change direction. Instead of running away, we must repent and head towards God. God says in the Bible, "I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, so turn and live." The problem of the chasm still remains... God had a plan to deal with it. 4. What is the Cross of Jesus? is next.