How can we discern a "sin not leading to death" in 1 John 5:16? Framing the Passage 1 John 5:16: “If anyone sees his brother committing a sin that does not lead to death, he should ask, and God will give life to the one who commits a sin not leading to death. There is a sin that leads to death; I am not saying he should request prayer for that.” What John Means by “Death” • Eternal condemnation is never in view for a true believer (see 1 John 5:13). • “Death” here most naturally points to severe, irreversible judgment in this life—such as God’s swift discipline that ends physical life (e.g., Acts 5:1-11; 1 Corinthians 11:29-30). • Therefore, a “sin not leading to death” is one God is willing to forgive and restore, sparing the sinner from that extreme discipline. How to Recognize a Sin Not Leading to Death 1. The person is still identified as a “brother.” • A genuine believer who has stumbled temporarily (Galatians 6:1). 2. The sin is confessed rather than defiantly defended. • 1 John 1:9—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us…” 3. The heart shows sorrow and openness to correction. • 2 Corinthians 7:10—“Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret.” 4. The lapse is not a settled, willful apostasy or blasphemous rejection of Christ. • Contrast Hebrews 10:26-29 and Matthew 12:31-32 (the “unpardonable” posture). 5. Church discipline, if needed, results in repentance rather than hardened rebellion. • Matthew 18:15-17 aims for restoration of the erring brother. Biblical Snapshots of “Sin Not Leading to Death” • Peter’s denial of Christ—grave but forgiven (Luke 22:61-62; John 21:15-17). • David’s repentance after his adultery and murder (2 Samuel 12:13; Psalm 51). • The Corinthian believer caught in sexual immorality, later restored (1 Corinthians 5:1-5; 2 Corinthians 2:6-8). Why John Urges Prayer • Our intercession becomes the means God uses to grant “life”—spiritual vitality, renewed fellowship, and sometimes even spared physical life (James 5:15-16). • Prayer aligns us with God’s desire for mercy (Ezekiel 33:11) while acknowledging His right to administer final discipline when necessary. Practical Steps to Discern • Examine fruit: Is there continued trust in Christ and evidence of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)? • Listen for confession: Does the person own the sin or excuse it? • Observe response to Scripture: Is there submission or stiff-necked resistance? • Seek counsel with mature believers or elders when unsure (Proverbs 11:14). • Pray earnestly; God may reveal whether restoration is still available (Jeremiah 33:3). Living Out the Lesson • Keep short accounts with God—daily repentance wards off hardened hearts (Hebrews 3:13). • Intercede quickly when you notice a fellow believer stumble. • Maintain hope: most sins believers commit fall under the “not leading to death” category, and God delights to restore. • Stay humble; the moment any of us stops listening to conviction, a lesser sin can grow toward deadly hardness (Hebrews 12:15). |
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