Overcoming Sin through Christ

A Comprehensive List of Sins

(Alphabetically Arranged)

Richard Hollerman

The plan of this study is simple.  We will look at a large number of sins, one by one, alphabetically.  We will define the sin, describe it, and comment on it, along with noticing Scripture references on the particular entry.  Some illustrations will be offered along with the description.

Inconsistency

Inconsistency comes from inconsistent which means “marked by incompatibility of elements. . . . not in agreement with each other. . . . not consistent in standards or behavior.”[1]  It can mean “not regular or predictable; erratic. . . .Lacking in correct logical relations; contradictory,” such as “inconsistent statements.”[2]  In contrast, consistent means “reliable; steady.”[3]

What about you? Are you consistent–or inconsistent? If someone says something one day and something very different the next day, he may be charged with inconsistency.  If a person says with his mouth that he loves God but his life denies this, he is being inconsistent in his commitment (cf. 1 John 2:3-6). If a person appears to serve God but fails to obey Him, there is an inconsistency in His belief and commitment.  If a man or woman claims to be a Christian but then compromises with the ways of the world, the person manifests an inconsistency in his life.

Notice how an inconsistent walk may be expressed, according to John:

·       “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth” (1 John 1:6).

·       “The one who says, ‘I have come to know Him,’ and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him'” (1 John 2:4).

·       “The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now” (1 John 2:9).

These statements reveal an inconsistency in one’s walk.  They show a hypocritical profession that lacks reality.

The Christian is to be consistent in his walk with the Lord.  He is to be consistent in his speech.  Paul says, “Laying aside falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:15).  He is to be consistent in his clothing.  “I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments” (1 Timothy 2:9).  He is to be consistent in his appearance, in his occupation, in his driving habits, in his use of money, and in his use of possessions.

When someone is lax in one area and careful in another area, he is being inconsistent.  When someone makes a profession with his mouth, but his behavior displays something very different, he is being inconsistent (as well as hypocritical).  This inconsistency in speech and life is sinful.


[1] Random House Webster’s College Dictionary.

[2] The American Heritage College Dictionary.

[3] Ibid.