---

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SUBJECT. Redemption is deliverance from sin. Hence the theory of redemption and its practical application — i.e., both our theology and our religion are determined by our views of sin.

1. As to theory.

(1) If there is no sin there is no redemption.

(2) If sin consists merely in action, and can be avoided, then redemption is a small matter.

(3) But if sin is a universal and incurable corruption of our nature, then redemption is the work of God.

2. As to practice. The religious experience of every man is determined by his view of sin. It is his sense of guilt which leads him to look to God for help, and the kind of help he seeks depends upon what he thinks of sin.

II. THE NATURE OF INDWELLING SIN. The Scriptures teach —

1. The entire and universal corruption of our nature.

2. That this corruption manifests itself in all forms of actual sin, as a tree is known by its fruits.

3. That regeneration consists in the creation of a new principle, a germ of spiritual life, and not in the absolute destruction of this corruption.

4. That consequently in the renewed there are two conflicting principles — sin and grace, the law of sin and the law of the mind.

5. That this remaining corruption, as modified and strengthened by our actual sins, is what is meant by indwelling sin.

III. THE PROOF OF THIS.

1. Scripture, which everywhere teaches not only that the renewed fall into actual sins, but that they are burdened by indwelling corruption.

2. Personal experience. Conscience upbraids us not only for actual sins, but for the immanent state of our hearts in the sight of God.

3. The recorded experience of the Church in all ages.

IV. ITS GREAT EVIL.

1. It is of greater turpitude than individual acts. Pride is worse than acts of haughtiness or arrogance.

2. It is the fruitful source of actual sins.

3. It is beyond the reach of the will, and can only be subdued by the grace of God.

V. WHAT HOPE HAVE WE IN RELATION TO IT? The new principle is generally victorious, constantly increases in strength, and constitutes the character. It has on its side God, His Word, His Spirit, reason, and conscience. The final victory of the new principle is certain. We are not engaged in a doubtful or hopeless conflict.

VI. THE MEANS OF VICTORY.

1. The Word. Sacraments and prayer. By the assiduous use of these, the principle of evil is weakened and that of grace is strengthened,

2. Acts of faith in Christ, who dwells in our heart by faith.

3. Mortification — refusing to gratify evil propensities and keeping under the body.

(C. Hodge, D. D.)

---

---

KJV: For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

WEB: For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am fleshly, sold under sin.