50. The Nature of Sin as Rebellion Against God

Scriptures FOR the View: Sin as Rebellion Against God

1 John 3:4 (KJV)
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.”
Interpretation: Sin is a deliberate violation of God’s commands.
Theological View: Sin is framed as law-breaking, suggesting defiant rebellion against divine order.
Isaiah 1:2 (KJV)
“Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the Lord hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.”
Interpretation: Israel’s disobedience is labeled as rebellion.
Theological View: Sin is relational betrayal, comparing it to children turning against a father.
Romans 1:21 (KJV)
“Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful…”
Interpretation: Knowing God but rejecting Him is an act of rebellion.
Theological View: Sin stems from willful neglect of God’s authority.
Psalm 51:4 (KJV)
“Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight…”
Interpretation: David acknowledges sin as personal offense against God.
Theological View: Sin is not just societal but spiritual rebellion.
Ezekiel 20:13 (KJV)
“But the house of Israel rebelled against me in the wilderness…”
Interpretation: Disobedience to God’s laws is equated with rebellion.
Theological View: Highlights covenant disobedience as rebellion.
Hebrews 3:15 (KJV)
“…To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.”
Interpretation: Hardening one’s heart against God is active rebellion.
Theological View: Refusing God’s guidance = sinful resistance.
Deuteronomy 9:7 (KJV)
“Remember, and forget not, how thou provokedst the Lord thy God to wrath in the wilderness…”
Interpretation: Provoking God links sin with defiant acts.
Theological View: Sin as provoking God’s justice and authority.
Jeremiah 3:13 (KJV)
“Only acknowledge thine iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God…”
Interpretation: Sin is confessed as rebellion against divine authority.
Theological View: Emphasizes human culpability in rebellion.

Scriptures AGAINST the View: Sin as Rebellion Against God

Romans 7:15 (KJV)
“For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not…”
Interpretation: Paul portrays sin as inner conflict, not willful rebellion.
Theological View: Suggests sin can stem from weakness, not always defiance.
Psalm 103:14 (KJV)
“For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.”
Interpretation: God understands human frailty.
Theological View: Implies that sin arises from human limitations rather than outright rebellion.
Luke 23:34 (KJV)
“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do…”
Interpretation: Jesus views some sins as ignorant acts.
Theological View: Not all sin is consciously rebellious.
James 4:17 (KJV)
“Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.”
Interpretation: Sin includes omission, not necessarily rebellion.
Theological View: Reframes sin as moral failure, not always defiance.
1 Timothy 1:13 (KJV)
“Who was before a blasphemer… but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.”
Interpretation: Paul emphasizes ignorance as a factor.
Theological View: Allows for sin through lack of understanding, not always rebellion.
Galatians 6:1 (KJV)
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault…”
Interpretation: Sin described as a burden rather than act of rebellion.
Theological View: Indicates weakness or temptation, not necessarily defiance.
Hebrews 5:2 (KJV)
“Who can have compassion on the ignorant, and on them that are out of the way…”
Interpretation: Describes sinners as straying ignorantly.
Theological View: Sin viewed with compassion, not condemnation.
Ecclesiastes 7:20 (KJV)
“For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not.”
Interpretation: Universal sinfulness as human condition.
Theological View: Sin seen more as a reality of fallen nature, not strictly rebellion.

Translation Debates: Hebrew, Greek, English, and Christian Traditions

I. HEBREW TRANSLATION ISSUES (OLD TESTAMENT ROOTS)

In the Hebrew Scriptures, several key words convey the idea of sin, particularly as rebellion:

Hebrew Word: “Pesha” (פֶּשַׁע)
Often translated as “transgression” or “rebellion.”
Example:
Isaiah 1:2 (KJV) “…I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.”
Theological View: This emphasizes willful disobedience. “Pesha” denotes a breaking away from God’s covenant authority.
Hebrew Word: “Chata” (חָטָא)
Generally translated as “to miss the mark.”
Example:
Genesis 4:7 (KJV) “…sin lieth at the door…”
Theological View: More neutral than “Pesha”—implies moral failure or error rather than outright rebellion.
Hebrew Word: “Avon” (עָוֹן)
Often rendered “iniquity” or “perversity.”
Example:
Psalm 51:2 (KJV) “Wash me throughly from mine iniquity…”
Theological View: Speaks to moral distortion; may result from rebellion, but not synonymous with it.

Translation Debate:
The KJV translates all three terms—“pesha,” “chata,” and “avon”—as “sin,” “transgression,” or “iniquity” somewhat interchangeably. This can blur distinctions between willful rebellion (pesha) and unintentional error (chata). Some modern translations make this clearer, but KJV’s poetic style often emphasizes spiritual gravity over linguistic precision.

Problem:
Lack of consistency may cause theological confusion. Some may read all sin as rebellious, when in Hebrew theology, a distinction exists between rebellious sin (pesha) and inadvertent sin (chata).

II. GREEK TRANSLATION ISSUES (NEW TESTAMENT DEVELOPMENT)

Greek words for sin bring clarity and complication. The Septuagint (LXX) and New Testament used specific Greek terms that shaped Christian doctrine.

Greek Word: “Hamartia” (ἁμαρτία)
Means “to miss the mark,” a failure to meet a standard.
Example:
Romans 3:23 (KJV) “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Theological View: Not always intentional. Describes a state of fallenness and inability to meet God’s standard.
Greek Word: “Parabasis” (παράβασις)
Means “a stepping aside,” deliberate violation of the law.
Example:
Romans 5:14 (KJV) “…even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression…”
Theological View: Adam’s sin = conscious rebellion. “Parabasis” reinforces the rebellion aspect.
Greek Word: “Anomia” (ἀνομία)
Means “lawlessness.”
Example:
1 John 3:4 (KJV) “…for sin is the transgression of the law.”
Theological View: Strong rebellion overtone—sin is disregarding divine law.

Greek Translation Accuracy:
Greek is more philosophically precise than Hebrew. “Hamartia” encompasses sin as condition, while “parabasis” and “anomia” imply rebellion. The KJV faithfully preserves these distinctions in most cases, but sometimes translates all of them as simply “sin.”

Problem:
Greek theology (especially in Paul’s writings) combines inherited sin (Romans 5:12) with volitional rebellion, which complicates systematic theology. Some interpret hamartia as rebellion, but contextually, it often implies helplessness or bondage to sin nature.

III. ENGLISH TRANSLATION ISSUES (KJV FOCUS)

King James Version Translation Strengths:

Retains moral gravity of sin using terms like “iniquity,” “transgression,” “wickedness.”
Translates Hebrew and Greek with reverence and theological seriousness.
Consistent with Reformation theology (Calvinist leanings) which emphasized rebellion and depravity.

King James Version Weaknesses:

Does not always distinguish between the type of sin (willful vs. ignorant).
Uses “sin,” “iniquity,” and “transgression” interchangeably.
Modern readers may misinterpret “transgression” (rebellion) and “iniquity” (perversity) as synonyms.

Example Comparison:
Psalm 51:1-3 uses all three terms in Hebrew:
“Have mercy upon me, O God… blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.” (KJV)

Transgression = “pesha”
Iniquity = “avon”
Sin = “chata”
Interpretation: Hebrew distinguishes them, KJV groups them under “moral offense,” reflecting theological bias toward total depravity.

IV. CHRISTIAN TRADITION TRANSLATION TENSIONS

Western Christianity (Augustinian/Calvinist Influence):

Emphasized sin as rebellion from Adam onward (Romans 5).
Original sin seen as both guilt and corruption.
KJV leans toward this interpretation with language of offense, wrath, and justice.

Eastern Christianity (Orthodox):

Emphasizes sin as illness or corruption, not legal guilt or rebellion.
Prefers terms like “hamartia” (missing the mark), less legalistic.
Greek texts in Orthodox liturgy use hamartia without attaching judicial wrath.

Catholic Tradition:

Differentiates between mortal (rebellion) and venial (weakness) sin.
Latin Vulgate influenced KJV translators but emphasizes legal and sacramental language.

Protestant Influence:

Interprets sin heavily in terms of rebellion and substitutionary atonement.
KJV’s consistency with these views influenced its translation choices.

Summary of Translation Issues & Theological Implications

Hebrew — Provides the richest nuance of sin (pesha = rebellion, chata = error, avon = moral distortion). KJV sometimes merges these into a single moral category.
Greek — Adds philosophical depth; distinguishes willful lawbreaking (“parabasis”) from inherited failure (“hamartia”). KJV maintains this distinction in key doctrinal passages.
English (KJV) — Faithful to original meanings in tone and theological weight, though it flattens some semantic diversity for stylistic unity.
Christian Traditions —
- Western churches emphasize sin as rebellion (especially Calvinist, Evangelical, Catholic).
- Eastern churches view sin more as brokenness and spiritual disease.
- The KJV’s translation choices reflect the theology of the Protestant Reformation, favoring judicial and rebellious interpretations of sin.

Final Thought:
Understanding the nature of sin as rebellion requires a layered approach across Hebrew, Greek, and English. While the KJV is reverent and theologically potent, distinguishing the kinds of sin (rebellion, weakness, ignorance) is essential for doctrinal precision. Accurate translation isn’t merely linguistic—it is deeply theological, shaping how generations interpret salvation, grace, and justice.

Comparative Table: Sin as Rebellion Across Translations

Scripture Reference	Hebrew / Greek Word	KJV Translation	Literal Meaning	Theological Implication	Translation Note
Genesis 4:7	חטאת (chattat) – sin	“sin lieth at the door” (KJV)	“Sin/offering crouches”	Sin is ready to dominate; tension between will and temptation	Hebrew allows dual meaning: sin or sin-offering. KJV chooses “sin.”
Isaiah 1:2	פשע (pesha) – rebellion	“they have rebelled against me” (KJV)	Willful rebellion	Covenantal treason, not mere error	KJV preserves strong tone of rebellion.
Psalm 51:2-3	עון (avon), חטא (chata), פשע (pesha)	“iniquity,” “sin,” “transgressions” (KJV)	Avon = moral perversion, Chata = missing mark, Pesha = rebellion	Shows threefold nature of sin: depravity, failure, rebellion	KJV correctly translates all three, but modern readers may not grasp nuance.
Romans 3:23	ἁμαρτία (hamartia)	“all have sinned” (KJV)	Missed the mark	Universal guilt, inherited fallenness	Greek emphasizes condition, not necessarily rebellion.
Romans 5:14	παράβασις (parabasis)	“Adam’s transgression” (KJV)	Stepping over a line	Conscious law-breaking by Adam	Strong link between sin and disobedience; KJV preserves idea.
1 John 3:4	ἀνομία (anomia)	“transgression of the law” (KJV)	Lawlessness	Sin is rebellion against divine law	KJV accurately captures the legal/rebellious tone.
Psalm 32:5	חטא (chata), עון (avon), פשע (pesha)	“sin,” “iniquity,” “transgressions” (KJV)	As above	Emphasizes confession and restoration	KJV follows Hebrew sequence closely, maintaining theological structure.
Hebrews 10:26	ἁμαρτανόντων (hamartanontōn)	“we sin wilfully” (KJV)	Persist in sin willfully	Apostasy as rebellion after knowledge of truth	KJV clearly frames this as deliberate rebellion.

Denominational Views

1. Roman Catholic Church

The Roman Catholic Church defines sin as both rebellion (deliberate turning from God) and privation (a lack of the good due to the Fall). Original sin is inherited, but actual sin is a conscious choice. The Latin Vulgate influenced much of Catholic theological tradition, though the Church affirms Hebrew and Greek sources.

For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners” — this affirms original sin, rooted in the Greek word παρακοή (parakoē) meaning “disobedience” or “refusal to listen.” It supports Augustine’s doctrine of inherited sin.

Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) “The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father” — sometimes cited to challenge inherited guilt, though Catholic doctrine interprets this as addressing temporal judgment, not original sin.

Hebrew Word Analysis: Pesha (פֶּשַׁע) – often translated as “transgression” or “rebellion”, found in Isaiah 1:2. The Church sees it as a personal, willful rupture with God’s law.

Greek Word Analysis: Hamartia (ἁμαρτία) in Romans 3:23 is interpreted as both a state and act. The Church emphasizes sacramental reconciliation for actual sin, distinguishing it from mere moral failure.

2. Eastern Orthodox Church

Eastern Orthodoxy views sin less as legal guilt and more as spiritual illness or missing the mark. Rebellion is a subset of sin, but not all sin is conscious rebellion. The Greek Septuagint plays a major role in Orthodox interpretation.

For: 1 John 3:4 (KJV) “sin is the transgression of the law” — using ἀνομία (anomia) meaning “lawlessness.” Orthodoxy sees this as willful resistance against divine order, especially relevant to apostasy or heresy.

Against: John 9:41 (KJV) “If ye were blind, ye should have no sin” — Christ distinguishes ignorance from rebellion. The Greek ἁμαρτία here emphasizes responsibility increases with knowledge.

Greek Word Emphasis: Hamartia (ἁμαρτία) is central. It means “to miss the mark” (archery term), pointing to moral deviation rather than always conscious defiance.

Translation Note: Orthodox theology favors dynamic translations preserving the mystery of sin, and resists overly juridical interpretations prominent in Latin-Western theology.

3. Evangelical

Evangelicals hold sin as both inherited and personal rebellion. They emphasize personal accountability and the need for repentance through faith in Christ. They lean heavily on the KJV and original Greek texts.

For: Romans 3:23 (KJV) “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” — emphasizes universal guilt using ἁμαρτάνω (hamartanō) meaning “to miss the mark.” This supports the total depravity view.

Against: James 4:17 (KJV) “To him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” — not all sin is conscious rebellion; sins of omission count too. The Greek ἁμαρτία applies broadly.

Debates: Evangelicals often debate degrees of sin (willful vs. ignorant). Arminians emphasize free will, while Calvinists stress total inability apart from grace.

Translation Insight: Evangelicals often parse Greek roots directly in teaching, especially parabasis (παράβασις – “stepping across a line”) and anomia (ἀνομία – “lawlessness”).

4. Protestant (General)

Mainline Protestantism retains traditional views of sin but may emphasize societal and systemic dimensions. The Reformation was grounded in recovering Greek and Hebrew meanings behind Catholic Latin tradition.

For: Isaiah 1:2 (KJV) “they have rebelled against me” — Hebrew פָּשַׁע (pasha) shows personal rebellion. Supports Luther’s view of the will in bondage to sin.

Against: Ecclesiastes 7:20 (KJV) “there is not a just man upon earth… that sinneth not” — emphasizes universal condition over individual rebellion.

Hebrew Word Insight: Avon (עָוֺן) means guilt or twisted moral nature. Protestants often emphasize this as a systemic inner distortion, not always outward rebellion.

Greek: Anomia in 1 John 3:4 is key for defining sin as lawlessness and rebellion against God’s moral code.

5. Baptist (Southern, Independent, etc.)

Baptists emphasize individual responsibility, original sin, and repentance. The KJV is highly regarded, often used alongside Strong’s Concordance for Hebrew/Greek study.

For: Genesis 6:5 (KJV) “every imagination… only evil continually” — Hebrew רַע (ra) and יֵצֶר (yetzer) show depravity and rebellion of the heart.

Against: Romans 2:12 (KJV) “For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law” — not all sin is informed rebellion; some perish under ignorance.

Theological View: Sin is willful defiance of God’s will and nature, requiring regeneration. The Greek paraptōma (παράπτωμα – “falling aside”) is often used to distinguish willful from ignorant acts.

6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)

Methodists see sin as both a moral failure and relational breach. They emphasize prevenient grace and the potential for holy living, which tempers the idea of inevitable rebellion.

For: Hebrews 10:26 (KJV) “if we sin wilfully…” — Greek ἑκουσίως (hekousiōs) means deliberate sin, interpreted as post-conversion rebellion.

Against: Luke 12:48 (KJV) “he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes” — accountability tied to knowledge.

Greek Insight: Hamartia vs. parabasis is important; one may err without rebellion. John Wesley emphasized personal holiness, believing willful sin could cease through sanctification.

7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)

Lutherans hold to total depravity and original sin, but also distinguish between willful rebellion and human frailty. Emphasis is on the simul justus et peccator (simultaneously justified and sinner).

For: Psalm 51:5 (KJV) “in sin did my mother conceive me” — supports inherited sin nature. Hebrew חֵטְא (chet) points to inborn corruption.

Against: Acts 17:30 (KJV) “God winked at… ignorance” — Greek ὑπεριδών (hyperidōn) suggests overlooking unknowing sin, softening rebellion imagery.

Theological View: Lutherans uphold original sin as rebellion passed through Adam (Romans 5), yet acknowledge God’s mercy toward ignorance.

8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)

Pentecostals teach sin as rebellion and separation from God, often emphasizing demonic influence and deliverance. They teach victory over sin through the Spirit’s power.

For: 1 Samuel 15:23 (KJV) “rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft” — Hebrew מרי (meri) and קסם (qesem) equate rebellion with occult opposition.

Against: Acts 3:17 (KJV) “through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers” — Greek ἀγνοίας (agnoias) clarifies distinction between ignorance and rebellion.

Hebrew Emphasis: Meri implies stiff-necked defiance, a major Pentecostal theme when teaching on deliverance or resisting the Spirit.

9. Jehovah’s Witnesses

They reject original sin as total depravity and view sin more as imperfection and disobedience. Jesus’ ransom offsets Adam’s disobedience.

For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) “by one man sin entered into the world” — emphasizes transmission of imperfection, not rebellion.

Against: John 15:22 (KJV) “they had not had sin” — supports the idea that sin arises with knowledge and choice, not automatically.

Greek Insight: Hamartia as inherited condition is downplayed; they emphasize parabasis as a conscious trespass.

10. Mormonism (LDS)

LDS theology rejects original sin as inherited guilt. Sin is willful disobedience committed after moral accountability (age 8).

For: 2 Nephi 2:25 (Book of Mormon) — “Adam fell that men might be” — views the Fall as necessary, not rebellious.

Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) — often cited to reject inherited guilt.

Translation Note: LDS teaching is based on English (KJV) and restorationist texts, emphasizing moral agency over corruption. Pesha and hamartia are rarely used in depth.

11. Seventh-day Adventist

SDAs believe sin is transgression of God’s law, which continues post-Calvary. They affirm original sin but reject total depravity.

For: 1 John 3:4 (KJV) “sin is the transgression of the law” — anomia as conscious rebellion against God’s command.

Against: John 9:41 (KJV) — suggests that awareness increases responsibility.

Greek Debate: Anomia is stressed in relation to Sabbath breaking and eschatology. They connect sin with law-breaking, especially the Ten Commandments.

Summary

While all denominations affirm sin’s gravity, their definitions and translations reflect deep doctrinal divides:

Catholic and Protestant traditions often see sin as rebellion and guilt from Adam, using parabasis and hamartia.
Orthodox and Methodist views see sin more as sickness or ignorance, with rebellion being a more serious subset.
Pentecostals and Baptists emphasize rebellion in spiritual warfare and personal choice.
Jehovah’s Witnesses and LDS downplay inherited rebellion, focusing on personal sin post-accountability.
Greek terms like hamartia, anomia, and parabasis reveal theological nuances.
Hebrew terms like chata, pesha, avon deepen the KJV’s moral and legal framing of sin.

Conclusion

The doctrine of sin as rebellion against God is foundational in understanding humanity’s relationship with God. Sin is often described in Scripture as a deliberate turning away from God’s commands, and this act of rebellion has profound spiritual consequences. While many denominations emphasize sin as an act of rebellion, there are some who focus more on sin as a failure to meet God’s standards or a product of human weakness. This diversity in interpretation reflects differing theological frameworks that influence how sin is understood and dealt with within the context of salvation.

The denominations covered have various approaches to interpreting sin, but all acknowledge the necessity of addressing sin through God’s grace. This understanding helps guide believers toward repentance and the restoration of their relationship with God through Christ. Whether viewed as an intentional rebellion, a violation of divine law, or a failure to live according to God’s will, sin remains a critical issue that leads to the need for redemption.

Table 1: Denominational Views on Sin as Rebellion Against God

Denomination	View	Interpretation	Scripture Basis (KJV)
Roman Catholic Church	Sin is a violation of God’s commandments	Sin is primarily seen as a break in relationship, with rebellion being one aspect. Reconciliation is necessary through confession and penance.	1 John 3:4 (KJV): “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.”
Eastern Orthodox Church	Sin as corruption of nature, rebellion within free will	Sin is seen as a disruption of the natural order of creation, and rebellion is a conscious choice to reject God’s divine life.	Jeremiah 5:23 (KJV): “But this people hath a revolting and a rebellious heart; they are revolted and gone.”
Evangelical	Sin as rebellion against God’s authority	Rebellion is seen as an intentional act against God’s will, requiring salvation through repentance and faith in Christ.	Romans 5:19 (KJV): “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
Protestant (General)	Sin as willful rebellion	Focuses on personal responsibility and free will in choosing rebellion against God.	Romans 8:7 (KJV): “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.”
Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist)	Sin as a conscious choice of rebellion	Emphasizes personal responsibility and the need for faith in Christ for forgiveness.	1 Samuel 15:23 (KJV): “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.”
Methodist (United Methodist, AME)	Sin as rebellion and brokenness	Methodism sees sin as a rebellion but also as a human frailty that requires grace for restoration.	Psalm 51:17 (KJV): “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”
Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA)	Sin as rebellion and total depravity	Rebellion is seen in the light of human nature’s total depravity, and grace is the remedy.	Romans 3:23 (KJV): “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI)	Sin as rebellion but also a battle for victory	Pentecostals emphasize victory over sin through the Holy Spirit, but acknowledge the rebellion aspect.	James 1:15 (KJV): “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”
Jehovah’s Witnesses	Sin as rebellion against Jehovah’s rule	Sin is seen as a rejection of God’s rule and authority, requiring adherence to Jehovah’s commandments.	Isaiah 1:2 (KJV): “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the Lord hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.”
Mormonism (LDS)	Sin as a deviation from God’s laws	The LDS Church emphasizes the agency of individuals in making choices, including the choice to rebel.	Genesis 3:6 (KJV): “And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.”
Seventh-day Adventist	Sin as rebellion and failure to follow God’s law	Adventists focus on sin as a rebellion against God’s commandments, particularly regarding the Sabbath.	Ezekiel 2:5 (KJV): “And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious house,) yet shall know that there hath been a prophet among them.”

Table 2: Denominational Views Against Sin as Rebellion Against God

Denomination	Argument Against Interpretation	Scripture Basis (KJV)
Roman Catholic Church	Sin is seen more as transgression of law, not a deliberate rebellion.	James 1:15 (KJV): “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”
Eastern Orthodox Church	Focuses on sin as a brokenness rather than an active rebellion.	Isaiah 53:6 (KJV): “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.”
Evangelical	Emphasizes sin as a failure to meet God’s standards, not necessarily rebellion.	Romans 7:15 (KJV): “For that which I do I allow not; for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.”
Protestant (General)	Sin is seen more as a failure to live according to God’s will rather than rebellion.	Romans 6:12 (KJV): “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.”
Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist)	Some see sin as a failure or weakness rather than a conscious rebellion.	Matthew 26:41 (KJV): “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”
Methodist (United Methodist, AME)	Sin is not always rebellion, but can also be seen as spiritual brokenness.	Romans 3:23 (KJV): “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA)	Focuses on sin as a result of human nature’s depravity rather than rebellion.	Psalm 32:5 (KJV): “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.”
Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI)	Emphasizes sin as a spiritual struggle rather than an act of rebellion.	1 John 3:4 (KJV): “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.”

Summary

In examining the nature of sin as rebellion against God, we see a range of interpretations across different denominations. While most traditions acknowledge that sin involves a willful turning away from God, the emphasis varies. Some focus on rebellion as an active and intentional act, while others view sin more as a result of human weakness, failure to meet God’s standards, or a corrupted nature. Despite these differences, all denominations recognize the need for repentance, salvation, and reconciliation with God. Sin remains a central issue in Christian theology, and the understanding of its nature impacts how each tradition teaches about the way to address and overcome it through faith in Jesus Christ.