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In the Bible, sin is never described as an inheritance. In the very nature of the case, sin or
guilt cannot be inherited. As a matter of fact, it is impossible to inherit sin. Sin is an
act. We cannot inherit an act. We may sin in thought, word, or deed, but no one inherits
a thought, word or deed. The creeds of men tell us that we are guilty of Adam's first sin.
Suffering from the consequences of another's guilt is a very common experience, but there is a vast difference between the sin and its consequences. A wife or husband may suffer much from the sins of the other. Children may suffer much on account of the wickedness of father or mother. It is in this way that the sins of the fathers are visited upon their children. The robber may bruise your head and take your money. You suffer the consequences of his guilt but certainly you do not share in his guilt. And we suffer as a result of Adam's sin without inheriting his guilt. God made man in His own likeness and image. He was not then partaker of any sin. God made man upright, clean and pure. And man then had all the human nature that anyone ever had. It is a mistake, therefore, to think that sin is an essential part of human nature. Adam's sin is no more part of human nature than are your sins. |