Have all people committed sins?

Definition of Sin

Sin is consistently described as a moral failing or disobedience against the perfect standard of the Creator. It involves transgressing the commandments given in Scripture, falling short of loving God wholeheartedly, and failing to love others selflessly. While the word “sin” can conjure various images, the basic concept remains: to miss the mark of divine righteousness.

Biblical Witness of Universal Sinfulness

Scripture portrays humanity as universally affected by sin. This pervasive teaching spans both Old and New Testament writings, demonstrating a cohesive message. The point is not merely to condemn humankind but to reveal a spiritual reality that underscores our deep need for divine grace and redemption.

Old Testament Affirmation

1. Psalm 14:2–3: “The LORD looks down from heaven upon the sons of men to see if any understand, if any seek God. All have turned away, they have together become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one.” These verses emphasize how no individual absolutely attains perfect goodness.

2. Ecclesiastes 7:20: “Surely there is no righteous man on earth who does good and never sins.” This concise declaration underscores that even the most devout individuals still commit sin on some level.

3. Isaiah 53:6: “We all like sheep have gone astray; each one has turned to his own way…” The prophet’s imagery pictures all of humanity wandering from the path of righteousness, reinforcing the universal need for reconciliation with God.

New Testament Affirmation

1. Romans 3:23: “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” This verse stands as one of the most direct statements on the universality of sin, affirming that every person fails to meet God’s standard.

2. Romans 5:12: “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned.” The apostle Paul links the entrance of sin to all humanity through Adam, explaining its impact on every generation.

3. 1 John 1:8: “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” This verse challenges any claim to personal sinlessness, indicating spiritual self-deception if one denies their transgressions.

Philosophical and Behavioral Evidence

Across cultures, there is a near-universal recognition of moral failings and guilt—from ancient Mesopotamian texts to the present day. Studies in behavioral science commonly observe that humans, irrespective of upbringing, display tendencies toward selfishness, deception, or harm. These patterns align with the biblical account of universal sinfulness, suggesting that moral imperfection is neither a mere cultural construct nor the result of limited societal norms, but inherent in human nature.

Manuscript Consistency and Historical Reliability

The theme of universal sinfulness is preserved across the wealth of biblical manuscripts. Thousands of Greek New Testament manuscripts, supported by early translations and patristic citations, consistently transmit the core message that all people are in need of redemption. Variations among manuscripts do not alter this central biblical teaching. Archaeological findings—such as ancient synagogue inscriptions, papyri fragments, and early church writings—reinforce the reliability of the text that teaches humanity’s lost condition and the necessity of divine intervention.

Outside Documents and Anecdotal Observations

• Ancient literature beyond Scripture, including pagan inscriptions and philosophical writings (e.g., Seneca, Marcus Aurelius), frequently lament humanity’s moral failures. While not affirming specific biblical doctrines, these works do observe the widespread nature of wrongdoing.

• Anecdotal reports from diverse cultures document rituals and practices aimed at countering guilt or confessing wrongdoing, revealing a shared sense of moral responsibility consistent with the Bible’s fundamental premise that all are prone to transgression.

Christian Understanding of Redemption

The emphasis on universal sin is not meant to paint life as hopeless but to point to a solution. The consistent biblical narrative is that humanity’s collective sin underscores the need for grace offered through the atoning work of Christ. His resurrection, documented in multiple reliable sources, stands as the anchor of Christian hope and the promise of forgiveness for all who acknowledge their sin and seek redemption.

Conclusion

Every person, according to Scripture, has committed sin. This truth is found throughout the biblical record—highlighted by prophets, apostles, and Christ’s direct teachings. Extrabiblical literature and historical observations further align with the conclusion that moral failings are ubiquitous. Yet, the universal reality of sin is met with the universal invitation to receive grace, grounding hope in the risen Christ, as testified by reliable manuscripts and longstanding Christian tradition.