One of the most common errors I hear in everyday speech is “there is not big and small sin, sin is sin.” That’s a childish idea, and once which is usually spewed by someone who hasn’t studied the scriptures. As a theologian, I can tell you that there is big and small sin. Several major religions, including Christianity, teach that there are major and minor sins. The Bible specifically states in the Book of John that there is sin leading to death and sin not leading to death, in other words, big and small sin.
Man may be stupid and pervert judgement, but God is infinitely wise. Do you think then, that God will punish a person who commits murder with the same punishment as one who steals to eat when hungry? Or someone who lies when his or back was against the wall? If you answer yes, then are you saying that you are must just and intelligent than God? Certainly not.
When a case is being tried, a judge takes all factors into consideration before handing down sentence. Do you not think then, that the Supreme Judge of the world will take all factors into consideration before passing judgement? God has a supreme advantage over all earthly judges: He sees the heart and understands every motive behind every thought. Indeed, all we should strive to cleanse ourselves of all unrighteousness, but do not get frustrated and think that “sin is sin” and therefore “all sin is equal.”
