Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature:Besetting sin refers to a particular sin that persistently troubles an individual, often becoming a habitual struggle. It is a sin that clings closely, easily entangles, and is difficult to overcome. The concept is rooted in the understanding that while all humans are prone to sin, certain sins may have a stronger hold on an individual due to personal weaknesses, circumstances, or repeated indulgence. Biblical References: The term "besetting sin" is most closely associated with Hebrews 12:1, which states, "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us" . This passage highlights the need for believers to identify and cast off sins that hinder their spiritual progress. Characteristics: 1. Persistence: Besetting sins are characterized by their persistent nature. They are not occasional lapses but recurring issues that require ongoing vigilance and effort to overcome. 2. Entanglement: These sins easily entangle believers, making it difficult to maintain a steady walk with God. They can lead to spiritual stagnation and hinder one's ability to grow in faith and holiness. 3. Personal Nature: Besetting sins are often deeply personal, varying from one individual to another. What may be a besetting sin for one person might not be for another, as they are often linked to personal weaknesses or life experiences. Examples in Scripture: While the Bible does not list specific besetting sins, it provides numerous examples of individuals who struggled with particular sins. King David's struggle with lust, as seen in his sin with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11), and Peter's struggle with fear and denial (Matthew 26:69-75) are illustrative of how even the most devoted followers of God can be ensnared by besetting sins. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, besetting sins underscore the doctrine of sanctification, the process by which believers are gradually conformed to the image of Christ. The struggle against besetting sins is part of the believer's sanctification journey, requiring reliance on the Holy Spirit, prayer, and the Word of God. Practical Steps for Overcoming: 1. Recognition and Confession: Acknowledging the presence of a besetting sin is the first step toward overcoming it. Confession to God and, when appropriate, to a trusted fellow believer, is crucial (James 5:16). 2. Repentance and Renewal: Genuine repentance involves a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and seeking God's help for renewal and transformation (Romans 12:2). 3. Accountability and Support: Engaging with a community of believers provides accountability and support. Fellow Christians can offer encouragement, prayer, and practical advice in the struggle against sin (Galatians 6:1-2). 4. Spiritual Disciplines: Regular engagement in spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fasting strengthens the believer's resolve and dependence on God, equipping them to resist temptation (Ephesians 6:10-18). Conclusion: While besetting sins present a significant challenge, they also offer an opportunity for believers to experience God's grace and power in overcoming sin. Through the work of the Holy Spirit and the support of the Christian community, believers can find victory over these persistent struggles, growing in holiness and closer to the likeness of Christ. Torrey's Topical Textbook Hebrews 12:1Why seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which does so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Torrey's Topical Textbook Library What Sin Does to Men Servants of Sin. Sixteenth Day. Grief at Sin. Sin Overcoming and Overcome The Power of God's Word to Deliver Men from Sin. Christ all and in All. Gold. Death in Life Confession of Sin Illustrated by the Cases of Dr. Pritchard and ... Mr. Moody and Mr. Radstock. Resources What does it mean to be a slave to sin? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the sin nature? | GotQuestions.org What is the worst sin? | GotQuestions.org Sin: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Sin in Believers is a Reproach to the Lord Sin is the Transgression of the Law Sin Money: General Scriptures Concerning Sin: Aggravated by Neglecting Advantages Sin: All Men are Conceived and Born In Sin: All the Imaginations of the Unrenewed Heart Are Sin: Blessings Withheld on Account of Sin: Christ Was Manifested to Take Away Sin: Christ's Blood Cleanses From Sin: Christ's Blood Redeems From Sin: Confusion of Face Belongs to Those Guilty of Sin: Consequences of, Entailed Upon Children Sin: Desert of, a Wilderness Between Elim and Sinai: Counted In Sin: Desert of, a Wilderness Between Elim and Sinai: Manna and Quail Given In Sin: Desert of, a Wilderness Between Elim and Sinai: The Complaint for Bread In Sin: Desert of, a Wilderness Between Elim and Sinai: The People of Israel Journey Through Sin: Entered Into the World by Adam Sin: God Has Opened a Fountain For Sin: God is Provoked to Anger By Sin: God is Provoked to Jealousy By Sin: If we Say That we Have No, we Make God a Liar Sin: Ministers should Warn the Wicked to Forsake Sin: No Escape from the Consequences of Sin: No Man Can Cleanse Himself From Sin: Not Counted Against Righteous People Sin: Omission of What we Know to be Good Is Sin: Paul's Discussion of the Responsibility For Sin: Repugnant to Righteous People Sin: Saints: Abhor Themselves on Account of Sin: Saints: Ashamed of Having Committed Sin: Saints: Have Yet the Remains of, in Them Sin: Saints: Profess to Have Ceased From Sin: Scripture Concludes all Under Sin: Shall Find out the Wicked Sin: should be Avoided Even in Appearance Sin: should be Guarded Against Sin: should be Striven Against Sin: should be Wholly Destroyed Sin: Sometimes Open and Manifest Sin: Specially Strive Against Besetting Sin: The Abominable Thing That God Hates Sin: The Fear of God Restrains Sin: The Ground Was Cursed on Account of Sin: The Holy Spirit Convinces of Sin: The Law by Its Strictness Stirs Up Sin: The Law is the Strength of Sin: The Law is Transgressed by Every Sin: The Law: Curses Those Guilty of Sin: The Law: Gives Knowledge of Sin: The Law: Made to Restrain Sin: The Law: Shows Exceeding Sinfulness of Sin: The Thought of Foolishness Is Sin: The Wicked: Cannot Cease From Sin: The Wicked: Defy God in Committing Sin: The Wicked: Delight in Those Who Commit Sin: The Wicked: Encourage Themselves In Sin: The Wicked: Encouraged In, by Prosperity Sin: The Wicked: Expect Impunity In Sin: The Wicked: Guilty of, in Everything They Do Sin: The Wicked: Led by Despair to Continue In Sin: The Wicked: Make a Mock At Sin: The Wicked: Plead Necessity For Sin: The Wicked: Shall Bear the Shame of Sin: The Wicked: Tempt Others To Sin: The Wicked: Throw the Blame of, on God Sin: The Wicked: Throw the Blame of, on Others Sin: The Wicked: Try to Conceal, from God Sin: The Word of God Keeps From Sin: Toil and Sorrow Originated In Sin: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To, Defining and Illustrating Sin: we should Pray to God: To Cleanse Us From Sin: we should Pray to God: To Deliver Us From Sin: we should Pray to God: To Forgive Our Sin: we should Pray to God: To Keep Us From Sin: we should Pray to God: To Make Us Know Our Sin: we should Pray to God: To Search For, in Our Hearts Sin: Whatever is not of Faith Is Sin: when Finished Brings Forth Death Related Terms Sin-offering (115 Occurrences) |
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