Are We Sinners? A Nuanced Look at Christian Identity

The question "Are we sinners?" sparks considerable debate within evangelical circles. Some argue that the label "sinner" is inappropriate for Christians, believing it contradicts their new identity in Christ. This article will explore this complex issue, demonstrating why the seemingly contradictory assertion that Christians are simultaneously sinners and righteous is not only theologically sound but also biblically supported.

The Core Disagreement: Identity vs. Action

The debate hinges on the interpretation of the word "sinner." Those who believe Christians are no longer sinners emphasize a radical transformation: a shift from being "in Adam" to being "in Christ" (2 Corinthians 5:17). They highlight the New Testament's frequent use of terms like "saints" and "holy" to describe believers. This perspective often views Martin Luther's assertion that Christians are simultaneously righteous and sinners as a logical contradiction.

This view often overlooks the ongoing reality of sin in the lives of believers. While experiencing salvation fundamentally alters our relationship with God, it doesn't magically erase our human tendency towards sin. Scripture itself acknowledges this reality: "If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us" (1 John 1:8). The transformative power of Christ's grace is not about eliminating our capacity for sin, but about offering forgiveness and empowering us to live differently.

Four Key Arguments for Understanding "Sinner" in the Context of Faith

The assertion that Christians are not sinners rests on several misunderstandings, which we will address through the following four arguments.

1. The Category Error: Confusing Identity and Action

The opposing view commits a category error by conflating actions and identity. Being declared righteous in God's eyes (identity) doesn't negate the reality of committing sinful acts (actions). Luther's statement isn't a contradiction; it accurately reflects the simultaneous realities of imputed righteousness through Christ and the ongoing struggle with sin. God's righteousness is credited to believers, ensuring their justification regardless of their actions. This is the core of grace: we are accepted not because of what we do, but because of what Christ has done.

The crucial distinction lies in recognizing that our identity is found in Christ, not in our actions. While our actions may reflect our imperfection, our status before God is secure in Christ's sacrifice. We are sinners by action, but righteous by faith.

2. The Univocal Term Fallacy: The Multiple Meanings of "Sinner"

The argument against Christians being sinners wrongly assumes "sinner" is a univocal term, possessing only one meaning. However, the Bible uses this term flexibly. Sometimes it refers to identity (one's standing before God, their reputation or status outside of Christ), and other times it refers to actions. Paul himself, a devout believer, refers to himself as a sinner (James 4:8, 1 Timothy 1:15). This demonstrates that the term isn't inherently contradictory to a life of faith.

The context is crucial in understanding the meaning of "sinner." In one instance, it might describe someone's actions, while in another, it might describe their state before God prior to salvation. Within the context of Christian faith, the term can also describe a believer's ongoing struggle with sin, acknowledging their continuing need for grace and forgiveness.

3. Biblical vs. Extra-Biblical Terminology: The Importance of Scriptural Language

While theological vocabulary has developed beyond biblical terms, the word "sinner" is directly from scripture. The term carries weight and historical context that cannot be easily dismissed. Consider the term "sanctification," a crucial concept in Christian theology. This term clarifies the biblical concept of becoming more Christ-like, but it doesn't replace the underlying reality of our inherent sinfulness. Similarly, the biblical reality of ongoing sin in believers necessitates the continued relevance of the term "sinner."

The fact that the Bible uses the term "sinner" to describe believers, even after salvation, indicates its continued relevance. Discarding the term would be to ignore a significant aspect of the Christian experience. The process of sanctification, the ongoing work of becoming more like Christ, is itself a testament to the persistent reality of sin in the believer's life.

4. Underplaying Sinful Nature: The Reality of "Total Depravity"

The opposing view sometimes downplays the reality of our inherent sinful nature. The concept of "total depravity" (not implying absolute moral depravity, but the pervasive influence of sin) highlights that even seemingly good deeds can have sinful motivations. The ongoing struggle with sin (Romans 7) and the presence of "concupiscence" (sinful desire) demonstrate the continued reality of a sinful nature until resurrection.

This doesn't diminish the reality of a believer's justification through Christ. These are not mutually exclusive concepts. We are simultaneously saved and still struggling with the effects of sin. The Christian life, therefore, is a lifelong journey of repentance, seeking God's grace and growing in holiness.

Conclusion: The Paradox of Sin and Righteousness

Are we sinners? The answer is a resounding yes, but with crucial qualifications. We are sinners in our actions and inherent nature, yet we are declared righteous by virtue of our faith in Christ and the imputed righteousness credited to us. The external difference lies in our faith, our pursuit of godliness, our willingness for self-examination, and our commitment to repentance. The debate isn't about denying the reality of sin in believers, but about a nuanced understanding of the relationship between our identity in Christ and the ongoing struggle with sin. We are saints by grace, and sinners by nature, a paradox that defines the Christian experience.

FAQ: Are Christians Sinners?

This FAQ addresses the complex question of whether Christians can be considered sinners, drawing from theological perspectives that acknowledge both the transformative power of faith in Christ and the persistent reality of human sin.

Are Christians still sinners after accepting Christ?

Yes. While Christians are declared righteous in God's sight through faith in Christ (justification), this doesn't erase their sinful nature or eliminate the possibility of committing sinful acts. The Bible clearly states that Christians continue to struggle with sin (1 John 1:8-10; Romans 7). Being a Christian is a journey of sanctification, a process of becoming more like Christ, not an instantaneous eradication of sin.

Doesn't becoming a "new creation in Christ" mean Christians are no longer sinners?

This perspective misunderstands the nature of salvation. "New creation" refers to a transformative identity shift, a change in relationship with God, not a complete eradication of sin's presence in one's life. The term "sinner" can refer to both one's identity before Christ and the reality of continuing to commit sinful actions after accepting Christ. These are not mutually exclusive.

Isn't it a contradiction to say Christians are both righteous and sinners?

This isn't a logical contradiction but a simultaneous reality. Christians possess imputed righteousness through Christ's sacrifice, meaning God credits Christ's righteousness to believers, justifying them despite their sins. However, this imputed righteousness doesn't negate the fact that they still commit sinful acts and possess a sinful nature. This is similar to Martin Luther's concept of simul justus et peccator (simultaneously righteous and sinner).

How does the Bible use the term "sinner"?

The Bible uses "sinner" in various contexts. Sometimes it refers to one's identity or status before God (separated from Him due to sin), and other times it refers to the actions of a person, even a believer. Even Paul, a devout apostle, referred to himself as a sinner (1 Timothy 1:15; James 4:8), demonstrating that the term isn't mutually exclusive with faith in Christ.

If Christians are sinners, doesn't that diminish the significance of salvation?

No. Acknowledging the continued presence of sin in a Christian's life doesn't diminish salvation's significance. Salvation is not about becoming sinless, but about being reconciled to God through faith in Christ. The ongoing struggle with sin highlights the need for grace, repentance, and reliance upon God's forgiveness.

Doesn't emphasizing the "sinner" aspect of Christians undermine the concept of sanctification?

No, it highlights its necessity. Sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ. Acknowledging our persistent struggle against sin motivates us towards ongoing repentance, spiritual growth, and reliance on God's grace to overcome temptation and sin.

What's the difference between being a sinner and being saved?

Being a "sinner" describes our inherent nature and actions apart from Christ. Being "saved" signifies a change in identity and relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. A believer remains a "sinner" (in the sense of still capable of sinful actions and possessing a sinful nature), but is simultaneously declared righteous by God due to faith in Christ.

Are Christians saints? Does this contradict the idea that they are sinners?

Yes, Christians are saints – meaning they are holy and belong to Christ. However, "saint" in this context doesn't imply sinlessness. It refers to one's position and identity in Christ. Being a saint and being a sinner are not mutually exclusive, reflecting the paradox of our simultaneous justified standing before God and our ongoing struggle with sin. It emphasizes the grace and forgiveness available to believers.