The Illusion of Getting Away with Sin.

Introduction:

Good morning, church family. Today, I want to address a common but dangerous mindset many people fall into: the illusion that we can sin and get away with it. We've all heard stories of individuals who thought they could escape the consequences of their actions, only to be eventually caught and face repercussions. This morning, we'll explore what the Bible says about this illusion and how we can find freedom through confession and repentance.

**Scripture Reading:**

Let's start by reading from Galatians 6:7-8 and Proverbs 28:13.

"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life." (Galatians 6:7-8)

"Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." (Proverbs 28:13)

**I. The Deception of Sin (Galatians 6:7)**

Sin is deceitful. It often promises immediate pleasure or gain without immediate consequences, leading us to believe we can get away with it. However, Scripture warns us not to be deceived. God sees everything we do, and Nothing is hidden from His sight.

Think about Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. They were deceived into thinking they could eat the forbidden fruit and avoid the consequences. But their sin brought immediate Spiritual death and eventual physical death into the world.

Hebrews 4:13 reminds us, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before his eyes to whom we must give account."

**II. The Principle of Sowing and Reaping (Galatians 6:7-8)**

Paul explains a fundamental principle in these verses: the principle of sowing and reaping. Our actions have consequences as a farmer sows seeds and expects a harvest. If we sow to please our flesh, indulging in sinful desires, we will reap destruction. But if we sow to please the Spirit, we will reap eternal life.

Consider a farmer who plants wheat seeds and expects to harvest wheat. It would be unwise for him to expect a different crop. Similarly, our good or bad actions will produce corresponding results. This principle is unchangeable and applies to every aspect of our existence.

**III. The Consequences of Concealed Sin (Proverbs 28:13)**

Proverbs 28:13 warns us about the danger of trying to hide our sins. Concealed sin does not prosper. Instead, it leads to more sin and deeper entanglement. King David is a prime example of this. After committing adultery with Bathsheba, he tried to cover up his sin by arranging for her husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle. For a while, it seemed like he had succeeded in hiding his sin. But God saw everything.

God exposed David's sin through the prophet Nathan, leading to severe consequences for David and his family. This story teaches us that hidden sin will eventually be exposed, and the longer it remains secret, the more damage it causes.

**IV. The Call to Confession and Repentance (Proverbs 28:13)**

The good news is that God is merciful and ready to forgive those who confess and renounce their sins. Proverbs 28:13 says, "Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy." 1 John 1:9 reinforces this: "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Confession and repentance are potent acts of humility and faith. They open the door for God's grace to work in our lives, bringing healing and restoration. When we come to God with a repentant heart, He is faithful to forgive and cleanse us.

**V. The Hope of Transformation**

Finally, let's talk about the hope of transformation. Romans 12:2 encourages us: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Living a life of integrity and righteousness is possible through the power of the Holy Spirit. We don't have to remain trapped in the illusion of hidden sin. We can experience true freedom and transformation in Christ.

**Conclusion:**

In conclusion, let's recap what we've discussed today. Sin is deceitful, leading us to believe we can escape its consequences. However, the principle of sowing and reaping ensures that our actions have corresponding outcomes. Concealed sin only leads to more sin and more significant consequences. But God, in His mercy, calls us to confession and repentance, offering forgiveness and transformation.

I challenge each of you to examine your lives today. Are there hidden sins you must bring to the light of God's grace? Don't be deceived into thinking you can get away with sin. Instead, confess, repent, and experience the freedom and transformation that comes from living in the truth.

**Prayer:**

Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your Word and the truth it reveals. We ask for Your forgiveness for the times we have been deceived by sin and tried to hide our wrongdoings. Help us to live lives of integrity and righteousness, sowing to please Your Spirit. Grant us the courage to confess and renounce our sins, and may Your grace transform us into the image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

**Call to Action:**

Please come forward if you are struggling with hidden sin and need prayer or support. We are here to help each other walk in the light of God's truth. Let's create a community of openness and repentance where we can experience God's mercy and grace together.