Fundamental Beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists

a. The definition of sin
Biblical definitions of sin include: "the
transgression of the law" (1 John 3:4, KJV), a
failure to act by anyone "who knows the good he
ought to do and doesn't do it" (James 4:17, NIV),
and "whatever is not from faith" (Rom. 14:23).
One broad inclusive definition of sin is: "Any
deviation from the known will of God, either of
neglect to do what He has specifically commanded
or of doing what He has specifically forbidden."[8]
Sin knows no neutrality. Christ states, "'He who
is not with Me is against Me'" (Matt. 12:30).
Failure to believe in Him is sin (John 16:9). Sin is
absolute in its character because it is rebellion
against God and His will. Any sin, small or great,
results in the verdict "guilty." Thus "whoever shall
keep the whole law, and yet stumbles in one point,
he is guilty of all" (James 2:10).
b. Sin involves thoughts, as well as actions
Frequently sin is spoken of only in terms of
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