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Question: Which is worse: killing 15 people or stealing a piece of
bubble gum? Now, who will pay for those sins?
1. I.e., is one sin worse than another?
a. The answer is "no", in that the wages of sin is death
(Rom.6:23). Unforgiven sin, whatever it is, will cause one to be
lost. Murderers will have their part in the lake that burns with
fire, which is the second death (Rev.21:8). Thieves shall not
inherit the kingdom of God (1 Cor. 6:10).
b. On the other hand, some sins are worse than others
regarding their very nature, or their consequences, or their harm
done to others. If one steals something, he can and should make
restitution. If one takes another's life, that is irreversible. Not
only has he taken the individual's life away, but he has brought
sorrow upon one's loved ones and friends that is incalculable, and
cannot be measured.
c. Passages: 1 Tim. 5:8; 1 Cor. 11:17; 2 Pet. 2:20.
2. Who will pay?
a. The nature of some sins is that restitution can be made for
the thing taken, or for the harm done. Repentance involves
restitution whenever possible.
b. So far as payment for sin is concerned, in the sense of
atonement or forgiveness, the only price that can be paid has been
paid: the blood of the sinless Son of God.
c. Passages: Lk. 7:42: when they had not wherewith to pay; 1
Pet. 1:18,19.
d. Song: Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to thy cross I
cling.
Song: What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of
Jesus.
If you have corrections, questions, comments or suggestions about these questions and answers, please contact Leon Mauldin directly at [email protected]
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