Sin vs. Iniquity vs. Transgression — What's the Difference?
Sin vs. Iniquity vs. Transgression — What's the Difference? Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.
Key verse: Psalm 32:5 (KJV)
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.
"I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." — Psalm 32:5 (KJV)
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The Biblical Answer
Sin is missing God's mark; iniquity is twisted, perverse evil from within; transgression is willful crossing of God's known boundary. All require Christ's atonement.\n\nScripture sets out the truth plainly. Psalm 32:5 declares: "I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin." This is the anchor of the answer.\n\nIsaiah 53:5 confirms and broadens the picture: "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities." When believers understand the distinction, confusion fades and obedience clarifies. Both ideas are grounded in God's character and meet ultimately in the person and work of Christ.
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Key Scripture References
"I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin."
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities."
"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Related Questions
Repentance vs. Remorse — What's the Difference?
Remorse is feeling sorry for sin or its consequences; repentance is a Spirit-given change of mind that turns from sin to God and bears fruit in changed action.
Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow — What's the Difference?
Godly sorrow grieves over sin against God and produces repentance and life; worldly sorrow grieves over consequences and produces despair and death.
How to Stop Sinning?
Believers stop sinning by abiding in Christ, walking in the Spirit, confessing sin honestly, fleeing temptation, renewing the mind with Scripture, and trusting grace to break sin's dominion.
What Is the Unforgivable Sin?
The unforgivable sin, or blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, is the persistent, willful rejection of the Spirit's testimony about Jesus Christ.
Why Did Jesus Have to Die on the Cross?
Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin and reconcile humanity to God.
Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
Related Reading
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Charles Wesley • 1739
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