What does trangression really mean?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: We have "old movie night" in our home and recently I saw the film "Transgression." What does that word really mean? -- M.W.
A: The Bible teaches that sin is transgression of the law (1 John 3:4). The word "transgression" could be translated "lawlessness." Jesus indicated that as men approached the end of history there would be a worldwide rebellion against law and order. Rebellion and lawlessness are present on a scale such as the world has never known. Children rebel against their parents until many parents are actually afraid of their children. University students rebel against society. People corrupt themselves by worshipping "self." But most of all, transgression is sin against Almighty God.
The world today is on an immoral binge much like it was in ancient Rome. Before Rome fell, her standards were abandoned, the family disintegrated, divorce prevailed, immorality was rampant, and faith was at a low ebb. We are in a hedonistic society, and what we are seeing is human nature expressing itself without God. While we often think of outward rebellion as sin, we fail to look inward. America's compulsion for "maximum personhood" is evidenced everywhere.
But God can break the chain of every transgression that binds us if we repent and turn from sin and follow the Savior. He will come into our lives and give us power to overcome sin. "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ ... that He might redeem us from every lawless deed" (Titus 2:11-14).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
