Everyone uses the word "sin," but what does it actually mean? Pastor Heath Lambert kicks off 2026 by answering this fundamental question using Romans 3:23-24, revealing why sin is more than just breaking rules - it's falling short of God's glory, and why that matters for the gospel.

Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction: First episode of 2026

0:49 - The question: What is sin?

1:15 - We use words we don't really understand

1:52 - Disagreement about what sins are

2:45 - Romans 3:23: Falling short of God's glory

3:51 - The standard: God's perfect holiness

4:46 - Sin as falling short of the standard

5:11 - Practical reality 1: God defines sin, not us

5:50 - Don't add to God's list of sins

6:06 - Example: Is eating pizza a sin?

6:30 - Don't cross off sins from God's list

6:53 - God's glory as the standard in His Word

7:07 - The result: Guilt and punishment

7:25 - Romans 3:24: Justified by grace through redemption

7:56 - Redemption as economic transaction

8:46 - Final answer: Sin, guilt, and gospel hope

Key Topics Covered

The Universal Word - How everyone uses "sin" but with different meanings

Common Misconceptions - The property example and sexual behavior debates

Romans 3:23 Definition - Falling short of the glory of God

The Divine Standard - God's infinite righteousness, glory, and holiness

Two Dangerous Errors - Adding sins God didn't name and removing sins He did

The Pizza Illustration - Why we can't make up our own list of sins

Cultural Pushback - When society rejects biblical definitions of sin

God's Word as Authority - Why Scripture alone defines what sin is

Sin as Debt - The financial metaphor for our spiritual condition

The Gospel Solution - Romans 3:24 and redemption through Christ

Justified by Grace - How Christ's righteousness covers our sin debt

Scripture References

Romans 3:23 - All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God

Romans 3:24 - Justified by grace through redemption in Christ Jesus

About The Ten Commandments Book

Heath Lambert's new book "The Ten Commandments: A Short Book for Normal People" is now available. This accessible guide explains how God's commands apply to modern life without requiring theological education. Perfect for personal study, evangelism, or gifts to friends, neighbors, and family.

Order now and download a free chapter at fbcjax.com/tencommandments

Like this episode? Subscribe for more biblical teaching from Marked by Grace. Share your thoughts in the comments below about how understanding sin as falling short of God's glory changes your perspective. Happy New Year!

Have a question you'd like answered? Send it to [email protected]