29 Scriptures Proving Christians Cannot Be "Sinners"

I'd like to begin this blog by sharing a few biblical passages which reveal that Christians can indeed sin. The scriptures offer guidance on the steps to take when one becomes aware that they are in a state of sin or have committed a sin.

1 John 2:1 “If anyone sins, we have and Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Psalm 103:12 “As far as the east is from the west, so far He has removed our transgressions (sins) from us.” Hebrews 8:12 reveals, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness and their sins and lawless deeds I will remember no more.”

These passages indicate that while Christians might commit sins, such occurrences should be rare. Hopefully, this blog will help you understand the difference between a sinner and a Christian that occasionally sins.

Have you ever heard a “Christian” say, “I’m just a sinner saved by grace?” Regrettably, this negative assertion is something I encounter repeatedly. Maintaining my faith journey would be unfeasible with such a mindset. I understand that followers might occasionally sin, but such instances should be rare.

I understand the mechanics of running and occasionally engage in short distance runs, yet I wouldn't classify myself as a "runner". Similarly, there are those who might enjoy a beer or a glass of wine a few times annually, but they aren't considered "drinkers". Why should we classify ourselves “sinners” if we are trying our best (with Holy Spirit’s help) not to sin?

Having spent close to 45 years reading the Bible and dedicating at least 12 years to an intense daily study of its scriptures, I have firmly decided to wholeheartedly believe the Word of God and commit to following its teachings. As a result, I live in a state of profound joy and peace that surpasses all comprehension.

A verse which helped me “live” in the word is John 8:31 which reads; Then Jesus said to those who believed Him, “If you abide (dwell) in My word, you are My disciples indeed.” I aspire to remain his follower, therefore, immersing myself in the Word of God is essential.

Before I share the compilation of Bible verses that illustrate the impossibility of being both "sinners" and "righteous believers" simultaneously, I'd like to highlight a few passages that have profoundly influenced me and lifted a significant burden I had borne for many years.

John 9:31 reads, “We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshipper of God and does His will, He hears him.” John suggests and is understood that God does not heed the prayers of sinners. Similarly, he emphasizes the importance of being active practitioners of God's Word in order for God to listen to us.

Another transformative verse is, 1 John 3:6; “Whoever abides in Him does not sin.” The original Greek text conveys that persisting in sin will cause us to fall short and forfeit eternal life.

It is clear to me that only “sinners” keep on sinning. 1 John 3:4 also points out, “Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.” Merriam-Webster defines lawlessness as unruly, illegal, lawbreaking, and anarchic. This should not describe a Christian.

Jesus depicts a few objectives of Holy Spirit in John 16:8. “And when He (Holy Spirit) has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.” Holy Spirit does His job perfectly and thoroughly as He convicts us of sin. Christians frequently feel a strong sense of conviction regarding sin even before it occurs. Holy Spirit also convicts us in the wake of committing a sin.

According to the bible, we know when we sin by the conviction of Holy Spirit. I have heard it said, “I may have sinned without knowing it.” If the Bible holds truth, as we believe it does, it is impossible for us to commit sin without being aware of it. Holy Spirit does His job!

A common misconception frequently mentioned is the idea that we might "fall" into sin. However, sin involves a decision. It is something we actively choose to engage in. Every sin begins with a single thought, and it can transform into a wrongful act if we decide to act upon that thought. If we get a sinful thought and take it captive, then give it to Jesus Christ, we have not sinned. (2 Corinthians 10:5)