What Do United Methodist Believe About Sin?
The official doctrine of the United Methodist Church is that because of rebellion against God going all the way back to Adam, all persons are inclined toward sin, self-centeredness, and selfishness. Sin is defined as missing the mark of God’s righteousness, being in rebellion against God, falling short of God’s righteousness, owing God a great debt, and disobeying God’s laws. We are not capable in our own power or by own will to forsake sin and please God. It is only through the grace of God in Jesus Christ that we can overcome sin and become part of God’s heavenly kingdom. Article VII of The Articles of Religion, in The United Methodist Book of Discipline says, “…man is very far gone from original righteousness, and of his own nature inclined to evil, and that continually.” Article VII of The Confession of Faith, in The United Methodist Book of Discipline says, “We believe man is fallen from righteousness and, apart from the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, is destitute of holiness a
