Why Do Christians Still Struggle With Sin After Being Born Again?
The Ongoing Struggle with Sin in the Life of a Believer
Many Christians are surprised and even discouraged to find that after placing their faith in Christ and being born again, they still face temptations and sometimes fall into sin. Why does this happen? Is something wrong with their faith or salvation? Let's explore what the Bible says about the believer's continuing struggle with sin, and how this fits into God's plan for our growth and sanctification.
1. The Reality of Indwelling Sin
Scripture clearly teaches that even after being born again, believers retain a sinful nature that battles against the new life in Christ. The Apostle Paul, writing as a mature Christian, honestly describes his ongoing struggle:
For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me, but to do that which is good is not. For the good which I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I practise. - Romans 7:18-19 ASV
Paul recognizes the presence of "the flesh"—an aspect of our being that remains opposed to God. Although our spirits are made new in Christ, our bodies and minds are still influenced by sin until we are glorified.
2. The Already/Not Yet Tension
The New Testament teaches that salvation brings about real change: believers are declared righteous (justified), made alive spiritually, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. Yet, full freedom from sin's presence awaits the future.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. - 1 John 1:8 ASV
This means Christians live in an "already/not yet" tension: already forgiven and made new, but not yet perfected. The struggle with sin is evidence that the process of sanctification—being made holy—is ongoing.
3. The Purpose of the Struggle
Why doesn't God simply remove our sinful inclinations at conversion? The Bible shows several reasons:
- Dependence on God: Our struggle reminds us of our need for Christ’s grace and power, keeping us humble and reliant on Him (2 Corinthians 12:9).
- Spiritual Growth: Battling sin is part of our growth in holiness. Through the Spirit, we learn obedience, perseverance, and how to walk by faith (Galatians 5:16).
- Longing for Christ: The struggle increases our anticipation for the return of Jesus and our final redemption (Romans 8:23).
4. Victory Over Sin Is Possible, But Not Perfection on Earth
While believers will not reach sinless perfection in this life, Scripture promises that we are no longer slaves to sin and can experience real, practical victory through the Holy Spirit.
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under law, but under grace. - Romans 6:14 ASV
As we yield to the Spirit and set our minds on things above, God changes our desires and empowers us to say "no" to sin (Colossians 3:1-10).
5. Assurance and Hope for the Struggling Believer
Those who struggle with sin and hate it can take comfort: their struggle is evidence of spiritual life. The Bible urges us not to despair, but to confess our sins and trust in Christ’s finished work:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. - 1 John 1:9 ASV
Our ultimate hope rests in God’s promise to finish the work He began in us:
being confident of this very thing, that he who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Jesus Christ. - Philippians 1:6 ASV
Conclusion
The struggle with sin is a normal part of the Christian life. It points us to the sufficiency of Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and our future perfection in glory. As we walk in faith and repentance, we can be assured of God’s love and the certainty of our sanctification.