Many Christians ask themselves:
« Can I claim to be a saint since I sin from time to time? »
The Bible gives a clear answer.
God’s Word calls “saints” all who are set apart for Him by faith in Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2). Being a saint is not the result of perfect works, but of the righteousness God gives us in Christ.
« God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. »(2 Corinthians 5:21)
Yet, a saint can still fall into sin. That’s why 1 John 1:8-9 says:
« If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. »
James adds:
« We all stumble in many ways. »(James 3:2)
This shows that flawless perfection is not our present condition.
But the big difference between a saint and a sinner is the heart’s attitude:
The sinner lives in sin without repentance, as a lifestyle (John 8:34).
The saint may fall, but gets up by confessing and turning from evil.
« For though the righteous fall seven times, they rise again, but the wicked stumble when calamity strikes. »(Proverbs 24:16).
In Christ, your identity does not change every time you fall.
You are a saint by grace, even if you need daily forgiveness.
The Spirit of God leads you to live further and further away from sin.
« For sin shall no longer be your master, because you are not under the law, but under grace. »(Romans 6:14).
So, ask yourself:
Do I live in sin without repentance, or do I fight against sin and always return to God?
The answer determines whether you are a sinner or a saint according to the Bible.
For the edification of the saints,
Apostle Dr Jean-Claude SINDAYIGAYA