Why do people continue to sin even after seeking forgiveness?

Sin is an intrinsic part of the human condition, a reality that even the most devout Christians grapple with. Despite seeking forgiveness, people continue to sin for a variety of theological, psychological, and existential reasons. To understand this phenomenon, we must delve into the nature of sin, the process of forgiveness, and the ongoing journey of sanctification in the life of a believer.

The Apostle Paul poignantly captures the struggle with sin in Romans 7:15-20:

"For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. Now if I do what I do not want, I agree with the law, that it is good. So now it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is right, but not the ability to carry it out. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but sin that dwells within me."

Paul's words resonate with many Christians because they articulate the internal conflict that persists even after one has sought and received forgiveness. This passage underscores several key points about why people continue to sin.

First, it is essential to recognize that the human condition is inherently flawed due to original sin. According to Christian doctrine, humanity inherited a sinful nature from Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3). This inherent sinfulness means that even after seeking forgiveness, individuals are still subject to the weaknesses and temptations of their fallen nature.

Second, the process of sanctification, or becoming more Christ-like, is a lifelong journey. While justification—being declared righteous before God—is instantaneous upon accepting Christ, sanctification is gradual. Philippians 1:6 provides encouragement in this regard:

"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ."

Sanctification involves the Holy Spirit working within believers to transform their hearts and minds. However, this transformation is not immediate. It requires continuous effort, prayer, and reliance on God's grace. The presence of sin in a believer's life does not negate the process of sanctification but rather highlights the ongoing need for God's transformative work.

Third, the world we live in is filled with temptations and influences that can lead believers astray. 1 John 2:16 warns us:

"For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world."

These external pressures can make it challenging for believers to remain steadfast in their commitment to live a holy life. The allure of worldly pleasures, materialism, and self-centeredness can lead even the most devout Christians to stumble.

Moreover, spiritual warfare plays a significant role in the persistence of sin. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us:

"For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

Satan and his forces are actively working to undermine the faith and integrity of believers. This spiritual opposition can manifest in various forms, including doubt, discouragement, and direct temptation. Recognizing this reality helps believers understand that their struggle with sin is not merely a personal failing but part of a larger spiritual battle.

Additionally, human free will is a crucial factor in the persistence of sin. God, in His sovereignty, has granted individuals the ability to make choices. This freedom is both a gift and a responsibility. While believers have the Holy Spirit to guide and empower them, they must still choose to follow God's ways. Deuteronomy 30:19 emphasizes this choice:

"I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live."

The exercise of free will means that believers can still choose to sin, even after seeking forgiveness. This ongoing choice underscores the importance of daily surrender and commitment to God's will.

Furthermore, the concept of forgiveness itself is often misunderstood. Some may view forgiveness as a one-time event that erases all future struggles with sin. However, forgiveness is an ongoing process that requires continual repentance and reliance on God's grace. 1 John 1:9 assures us:

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

This verse highlights the necessity of regular confession and repentance. It is not a one-and-done deal but a continuous cycle of seeking God's forgiveness and striving to live according to His will.

In addition to these theological reasons, psychological and emotional factors also contribute to the persistence of sin. Humans are creatures of habit, and sinful behaviors can become deeply ingrained patterns that are difficult to break. Overcoming these patterns requires not only spiritual transformation but also practical steps, such as accountability, counseling, and behavioral changes.

Emotional wounds and unresolved trauma can also lead to sinful behaviors. Individuals may turn to sin as a coping mechanism for pain, stress, or insecurity. Healing these wounds often involves a combination of spiritual, emotional, and psychological support.

C.S. Lewis, in his book "Mere Christianity," offers insight into the complexity of human sinfulness and the process of transformation:

"We may, indeed, be sure that perfect chastity—like perfect charity—will not be attained by any merely human efforts. You must ask for God's help. Even when you have done so, it may seem to you for a long time that no help—or less help than you need—is being given. Never mind. After each failure, ask forgiveness, pick yourself up, and try again. Very often what God first helps us towards is not the virtue itself but just this power of always trying again."

Lewis emphasizes the importance of perseverance and reliance on God's help in the face of ongoing sin. The journey toward holiness is marked by continuous effort and dependence on divine assistance.

In conclusion, the persistence of sin even after seeking forgiveness is a multifaceted issue rooted in the theological understanding of human nature, the process of sanctification, the influence of external and spiritual forces, the exercise of free will, and psychological and emotional factors. While the struggle with sin is a reality for all believers, it is also an opportunity for growth, reliance on God's grace, and deeper intimacy with Him. As Christians, we are called to persevere, continually seek God's forgiveness, and trust in His promise to complete the good work He has begun in us.