How To Cover Sin

Romans 4:1-8

Introduction

• Common Bible word– More than 25 words translated “cover”– Synonym is “concealed” (Exodus 24:15)– Often something completely concealed

Introduction

• Covering sin dealt with in the Bible– Defines sin (1 John 3:4)– Fail to do what we know (James 4:17)– Used positively and negatively

(Psalm 85:2; Proverbs 28:13)

Wrong Way To Cover Sin

• Hiding, or covering up– Curse under the Law (Proverbs 28:13)– Use of preaching as a cloak to hide sin

(1 Thessalonians 2:5; 1 Peter 2:16)

Wrong Way To Cover Sin

• Adam and Eve– Futile effort (Genesis 3:8; Psalm 139:1-8, 11)– Also tried to “pass the buck” (Genesis 3:12, 13)

Wrong Way To Cover Sin

• Aaron blamed the people – Foolish effort, falling short of his goal (Exodus 32:22)– Humorous and sad picture (Exodus 32:2-4, 24)– Any more foolish than ours?

Wrong Way To Cover Sin

• Achan tried to conceal the evidence (Joshua 7)– Literally tried to “bury” it (vv. 1, 21)– Consequences of sin (vv. 20-25)– Others suffer because of our sin

Wrong Way To Cover Sin

• By stopping the messenger– Murdered Stephen (Acts 7:51-60)– Hated Paul (Galatians 4:16)

Proper Way To Cover Sin

• Covered by following God’s law – Animal sacrifices under the Law of Moses– David knew the blessedness having his sins covered

(Psalm 32:1-7)– Quoted in reference to our sins (Romans 4:1-8)– Covered when it is forgiven

Proper Way To Cover Sin

• When does it happen?– Application of the blood of Christ (Matthew 26:28)– At baptism for the new convert (Acts 2:38; 3:19)– Baptized into His death (Romans 6:1-6)– Upon repentance and confession for a Christian

(Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:7-9)– Sins are blotted out (Hebrews 8:12)– Considered in judgment (Ecclesiastes 12:14)

Conclusion

• Respect God who can forgive

• Have your sins been covered?