7 Common Sins and Why They’re Biblically Wrong

ironridgeproductio
Apr 21
4 min read

“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” — Romans 12:2 (NLT)

In a world where “do what feels right” is the rule of life, it’s easy to lose sight of what’s actually right in God’s eyes.

Let’s be real: the culture normalizes a lot of things that the Bible calls sin. But if we want to live in truth, freedom, and love—we can’t just go along with what feels good or looks popular.

We need to know what sin is, why it matters, and what God says about it.

Here are 7 common sins many people struggle with (especially in our generation)—and what Scripture says about them.

1. Sexual Sin (Fornication, Porn, Lust)

What it is: Sex outside of marriage, pornography, sexual fantasies, and anything that distorts God’s design for intimacy.

Why it’s wrong: God created sex as a sacred bond between a husband and wife—not something casual or consumed. Sexual sin distorts something holy and deeply affects the heart, mind, and soul.

“Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually sins against their own body.” — 1 Corinthians 6:18“But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality…” — Ephesians 5:3

Truth: God doesn’t shame your struggle—He invites you to freedom. Purity isn’t about rules, it’s about wholeness.

2. Pride

What it is: Thinking you’re better than others, refusing correction, self-centeredness, or relying on yourself more than God.

Why it’s wrong: Pride is the root of rebellion—it puts you on the throne instead of God. Scripture says God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble.

“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” — James 4:6“Pride goes before destruction…” — Proverbs 16:18

Truth: Humility isn’t weakness—it’s surrender. God exalts those who bow before Him.

3. Gossip & Slander

What it is: Talking behind people’s backs, spreading drama, or tearing others down—whether in conversation, group chats, or social media.

Why it’s wrong: Words have power. Gossip breaks trust, destroys unity, and reveals a heart that isn’t walking in love.

“Whoever gossips gives away secrets, but trustworthy people can keep a confidence.” — Proverbs 11:13“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up...” — Ephesians 4:29

Truth: If you wouldn’t say it in front of them, don’t say it behind them. Speak life or stay silent.

4. Greed & Materialism

What it is: Always wanting more—money, clothes, attention, success—and placing your worth in what you have.

Why it’s wrong: Greed is worshiping stuff instead of God. It leaves you always chasing, never satisfied.

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil…” — 1 Timothy 6:10“You cannot serve both God and money.” — Matthew 6:24

Truth: What you own will never define you. Only God can satisfy the ache inside your soul.

5. Lying

What it is: Bending the truth, white lies, half-truths, hiding sin, or manipulating people with your words.

Why it’s wrong: God is a God of truth. Satan is called the father of lies. Every time we lie, we side with the enemy’s strategy.

“You shall not give false testimony…” — Exodus 20:16“Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor…” — Ephesians 4:25

Truth: Honesty builds character. Even when the truth is hard—it's where freedom starts.

6. Jealousy & Envy

What it is: Wanting what others have, resenting their blessings, or silently competing with their success.

Why it’s wrong: Envy says, “God, what You’ve given me isn’t enough.” It leads to bitterness, comparison, and distraction from your calling.

“A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” — Proverbs 14:30“Love does not envy…” — 1 Corinthians 13:4

Truth: God has a lane, a plan, and a purpose with your name on it. You don’t need to chase anyone else’s.

7. Bitterness & Unforgiveness

What it is: Holding grudges, refusing to forgive, replaying hurt over and over again.

Why it’s wrong: Bitterness poisons your heart. Forgiveness isn’t letting someone “off the hook”—it’s setting yourself free.

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger… forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:31-32“If you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” — Matthew 6:15

Truth: Forgiveness frees you to move forward. Bitterness keeps you stuck in what God already healed.

💡 Final Thoughts

Sin isn’t outdated. And neither is grace.

God doesn’t call out your sin to condemn you. He calls it out to set you free. You were never made to live bound, broken, or stuck in the world’s system.

You were made to walk in truth, holiness, and freedom—with Jesus leading the way.