Sin
Overview
To commit sin is to willfully disobey God’s commandments or to fail to act righteously despite a knowledge of the truth (see James 4:17).
The Lord has said that He “cannot look upon sin with the least degree of allowance” (Doctrine and Covenants 1:31). Sin results in the withdrawal of the Holy Ghost. It makes the one who sins unable to dwell in the presence of Heavenly Father, for “no unclean thing can dwell with God” (1 Nephi 10:21).
Other than Jesus Christ, each person who has ever lived on earth has broken commandments or failed to act according to knowledge of the truth. The Apostle John taught: “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, [Jesus Christ] is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:8–9). Through the Atonement of Jesus Christ, each person can repent and be forgiven of these sins.
Related Topics
Scriptures
Scripture References
Scripture Study Resources
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Topical Guide, “Sin”
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Bible Dictionary, “Repentance”
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Guide to the Scriptures, “Sin”
Messages from Church Leaders
Videos
“Because of Him”
“The Savior Wants to Forgive”
“Spiritual Crocodiles”
“The Sting of the Scorpion”
“The Savior Suffers in Gethsemane”
“Not All Suffering Results from Sin”
“Go and Sin No More”
Learning Resources
General Resources
Brad Wilcox, “His Grace Is Sufficient,” BYU Speeches
W. Gibb Dyer Jr., “Repentance: The Key to Eternal Progression,” BYU Speeches
Church Magazines
Richard M. Romney, “How to Be a Real Loser,” New Era, October 2016
Mark A. Mathews, “Satan’s Rebellion,” Ensign, March 2015
“The Attributes of Jesus Christ: Without Sin,” Ensign, February 2015
Benjamin R. Erwin, “Overcoming Addiction through the Atonement,” Ensign, September 2012
“Being Clean Again,” Ensign, September 1996
“The Power to Change,” Ensign, January 1995
John B. Fish, “Lift the Dark Clouds of Gloom,” Ensign, March 1990
Spencer J. Condie, “Fasting and Prayer: Detergent for Sin,” New Era, October 1975
Study Manuals
In the News
“Repentance Is ‘Beautiful,’ Brother Callister Teaches,” Church News
“Christ’s Atonement Triumphed Over Four Obstacles,” Church News