08. What Actually Counts as Sin?

Is having a bad thought a sin? John Ortberg explores the difference between an unwanted thought, temptation, and the intention to do wrong. Drawing on Cornelius Plantinga’s Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be and insights from Dallas Willard, John begins with shalom: the biblical vision of life flourishing as God intended. He explains why sin matters, how pride damages that flourishing, and why the thoughts that occur to us are different from the choices we make about them. Through Romans 8:6, Colossians 3, Philippians 4:8, and Hebrews 12:4, John offers a practical question for spiritual growth: “What shall I think about today?” Today’s practice: Choose a word, Scripture, or picture of Jesus’ love to return to throughout the day. When your attention wanders, ask God for help and return gently. Scripture explored: Romans 8:6; Colossians 3:1–2; Philippians 4:8; Hebrews 12:4. Subscribe to Become New for regular teaching from John Ortberg and practical encouragement to grow with God in everyday life. #JohnOrtberg #BecomeNew #SpiritualGrowth 🙌 New episodes every weekday. 📲 Subscribe, like, and share to help others grow spiritually. One day at a time. Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time. TEXT us at 51504 EMAIL US at [email protected] GET OUR WEEKDAY EMAILS WITH EXTRA GOODIES at becomenew.com/subscribe GET A TEXT REMINDER FOR NEW VIDEOS: text NEW to 51504 SEND US PRAYER REQUESTS: via text or email; we'll send you a written prayer from our team DOWNLOAD FREE STUDY GUIDES: BecomeNew.com/study-guides 😊 Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CnqywVp9s/ 🤳Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/become.new/ Music Credits: Welcome to the World by Sarah Watson License# MB01XUUTGU633PL 00:00 The small choices shaping who we become 00:26 Why we need clarity about sin 00:46 Not the Way It’s Supposed to Be 01:20 Shalom: Life as God intended 02:40 Understanding what sin breaks 03:35 Why God is against sin 04:39 Thoughts, temptation, and choosing wrong 05:28 Thoughts plus inclination: Temptation 05:42 Churchill and the temptation of pride 06:30 When intention enters the picture 07:22 The role of the will 07:38 Sin can begin before outward action 08:00 Beyond white-knuckling through the day 08:41 Where do I set my mind? 09:44 Why the struggle matters 10:41 Moving toward love, joy, and peace 11:08 Today’s practice: What shall I think about?