Today we will explore the legitimacy of the popular concept known as the seven deadly sins.
The church has identified these seven sins as failings in character that are to be condemned and avoided by the righteous.
They are indicators of an unhealthy soul.
These seven deadly sins are:
- PRIDE – an unhealthy focus on one’s self with no regard for what God says or for others
- GREED – an unhealthy fixation on material gain
- LUST – an inappropriate longing or focus on sexual desires
- GLUTTONY – excessive, unhindered preoccupation with food
- WRATH – uncontrolled, elevated anger directed at another person
- SLOTH – heart posture of excessive laziness, apathy for meaningful action
- ENVY – intense longing for another person’s position or possession
This list was originally assembled by Pope St. Gregory I who lived between 540 and 604 AD.
In contrast to these vices, Christian tradition also lists seven heavenly virtues which we are to strive to possess.
The seven cardinal sins however, are considered to be the root of other sins.
It is possible that the Pope coined the term ‘deadly’ through an expression of poetic license.
He may have wanted to emphasize the severity of these sins to deter Christians from entertaining them.
Still, research suggests that Catholics contended that these sins would ultimately lead to eternal damnation.
These behaviors, if not managed correctly, can greatly diminish the walk of any Christian and lead them down a path that exposes them to the wiles of the enemy.
They provide an invitation for spiritual warfare.
But, though they are dangerous, this list hardly can be taken to literally mean sure death.
Does The Bible Mention Seven Deadly Sins?
While there are scriptures addressing each, it is important to note that this list of vices are not exhaustive.
The bible presents several others that play a role in complicating our Christian walk.
Still, nowhere in the bible categorizes this specific list of sins.
So while Christian tradition recognizes it, the bible deals with sin in a more wholistic fashion.
For this post though we will show you the scriptures that speak to each of the seven vices.
PRIDE – 1 John 2:16
16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.
GREED – Proverbs 28:2525
A greedy man stirs up strife, but the one who trusts in the Lord will be enriched.
LUST – 1 Corinthians 6:18
18 Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.
GLUTTONY – Proverbs 23:20-21
20 Be not among drunkards or among gluttonous eaters of meat, 21 for the drunkard and the glutton will come to poverty, and slumber will clothe them with rags.
WRATH – Psalm 37:8
8 Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.
SLOTH – 2 Thessalonians 3:10
10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.
ENVY – Proverbs 14:30
30 A tranquil heart gives life to the flesh, but envy makes the bones rot.
What’s The Takeaway?
These seven sins are indeed dangerous.
All of them lead to more sin and they require the help of the Holy Spirit to help us overcome them.
None of them are unforgivable however.
Jesus has already paid the price for our sins.
Sin has no dominion over us!
The only sin that is unforgivable is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit (See Matthew 12:31, Mark 3:29).
What’s more, if we are honest, we have all been guilty on some level of at least one of those sins.
But take heart… there is hope in the person of Jesus.
Before We Part…
As is customary here at Stating Faith, we will bless you with a song.
Today we choose, No Longer a Slave by Jonathan David and Melissa Hesler.
Enjoy…
One Last Thing
What is your take on the legitimacy of the seven deadly sins?
Can you recall how you first came across that term?
Share your answer with us in the comment section below.
Until next time…
Stay Blessed