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Sins in the Balance (Part One)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWithin the Book of the Law, there are stern warnings against presumptuous sin, for which no atonement could be made. Such deliberate defiance of God's law places the sinner beyond the reach of forgiveness under the old covenant, marking it as a grave offense against the divine Lawgiver. This classification of sin stands as a critical danger, highlighting the severity of willfully disregarding the commands of the Most High.
Sin, Christians, and the Fear of God
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughSin, particularly in its presumptuous form, is portrayed with grave severity throughout Scripture as a formidable barrier to God's purpose for mankind. Presumptuous sins, described by the Hebrew term pesha', signify a willful rebellion or transgression, often committed by those who know better yet choose to defy God's standards. This term, translated as transgressions, appears frequently in the Old Testament, notably in the book of Amos, where it underscores a continuous, bold, and vicious revolt against God, even among those outside the covenant who are not entirely ignorant of His ways. Such sins are marked by a persistent attitude of defiance, showing no intent to repent, and are as destructive as any other form of sin, leading to separation from God and ultimate failure in achieving His purpose. The continuous nature of these presumptuous sins, as seen in Israel's rebellion against the house of David, reveals a deep-seated pride and covetousness. This attitude manifests as a dismissive stance toward God's standards, treating sin as inconsequential and displaying a deceitful tendency to exploit the weak for personal gain. Despite not being overtly violent, these sins are no less deviations from God's will, confirming that all sin, regardless of its form or intensity, results in death and estrangement from Him. God's judgment on such willful rebellion, even among Gentiles, emphasizes that no level of sin is excusable, and it invariably impedes the everlasting relationship He desires with His creation.
Sin Defined and Overcome
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughSin, particularly presumptuous sin, is portrayed with grave seriousness as a profound deviation from God's standards, carrying severe consequences. Presumptuous sins are often committed by those who know better but willfully choose to act against God's will. The Hebrew term "pasha," translated as transgress or rebellion, conveys a sense of expansion, breaking away, and continuous defiance, often described as revolt or rebel. This type of sin is harsh and persistent, reflecting a bold and unyielding attitude that God does not overlook, even among those ignorant of His law. Such transgressions are marked by a vicious, in-your-face nature that cannot be excused by ignorance or inadvertence. The sins of Israel and Judah, as described, exemplify presumptuous sin through persistent sneakiness, stubborn hardheadedness, and taking advantage of others. Though not always violent, these actions are deemed presumptuous due to the continuous lack of effort to overcome them. God judges these sins as self-willed, reflecting an attitude of pride and a readiness to exploit the weak for personal gain. Even non-violent sins can be presumptuous in God's eyes because of the underlying attitude of defiance and disregard for His standards.
Presumptuousness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughPresumptuous sin is the arrogant attitude of one who confidently assumes something to be true and then acts on it, taking authority God has not given or has given to another. It is "getting too big for your britches." Numbers 15:22-31 contrasts unintentional sin, for which offerings bring forgiveness, with presumptuous sin, which is intentional, defiant, and despises God's Word. No sacrifice is provided for it, and the offender is "completely cut off." Related passages add that it can involve premeditation (Exodus 21:14), going ahead despite explicit warning (Numbers 14:39-45), refusing to submit to the judgment of God-appointed authority (Deuteronomy 17:8-13), putting oneself in competition with God, as Pharaoh did (Exodus 18:11), and speaking in God's name without being sent (Deuteronomy 18:20; Jeremiah 23:16-22). King Uzziah, whose heart was lifted up in strength, entered the temple to burn incense, a priestly duty. He was struck with leprosy on his forehead, a mark of defiled character, and cut off for life. The same pride turned Helel into Satan. Presumption therefore also appears in churches and works that make doctrinal changes or take up roles without biblical authority, though God is the Judge of such cases. The antidote is submission, humility, and waiting for God to exalt (I Peter 5:5-7; Psalm 75:6-7). Like David in Psalm 19:12-13, believers should ask God to keep them back from presumptuous sins, since mercy for them is never seen.
Secret Faults and Presumptuous Thoughts
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPeople can mentally 'legalize their iniquities,' in doing so attempting to make God the accomplice of their sins. But He will not overlook blatant faults.
Countering Presumptuousness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughKorah, Dathan, and Abiram were not content with where God had placed them, but, in a spirit of pride, wanted to arrogate to themselves the office of Moses.
Presumption and Divine Justice (Part One)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughOrthodoxy in virtually every aspect of life has been discarded, indicating how perverse human nature is in its determination to rebel against God.
Examples of Divine Justice
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughNadab and Abihu, Ananias and Sapphira, and Uzzah, all aware of the penalties for their actions, rebelled against God's clear and unambiguous instructions.
Comparing Ourselves Among Ourselves
Article by Martin G. CollinsMost people think they are moral compared to their peers. Yet we will only begin to grow in character once we compare ourselves to the true standard.
Forms vs. Spirituality (Part 2)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughSins committed presumptuously by people of high responsibility (leaders) are judged more rigorously than those sins committed by people in ignorance.
Elements of Judgment (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)We must emulate the ways of God, demonstrating justice in our lives, thoughts, words, and deeds, preparing to judge in God's Kingdom. Not all sins are equal.
Presumption and Divine Justice (Part Two)
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe Bible reveals a pattern of God's displeasure with presumption. God's justice always aligns with His righteousness, but He often acts in mercy.
The Five Warnings of Hebrews
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe modern church stands in danger of allowing salvation to slip away. Hebrews gives warnings to help us turn our lives around so we do not fall short.
God's Sense of Justice
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod is absolutely justified in what He decides regarding the judgment and punishment of us all. However, He is merciful and always rewards righteousness.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Sixteen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughRighteousness consists of applying the Law's letter and/or intent. Sin constitutes a failure of living up to the standards of what God defines as right.