Lesson #17—Sin and Misery (Part 1)

Shorter Catechism Q & A #17

Q. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?

A. The fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery.

Memorize Q & A—Exposition

Sinning against God and his moral law brings unhappiness and despair to all areas of life. The transgressor also desires that others follow his immoral way of life.

What does it mean?

1. Define the words “sin” and “misery.”
2. Discuss: Romans 5:12–13; Galatians 3:10–11

What is the nature and purpose of the law?

What is the result of transgressing the law of God?

Explain the meanings of original and actual sin.

What is our practice?

Read Galatians 3:22–26. How does this passage help us understand the use of the Law and the promise of salvation? How does this help us in our prayers and teaching in relationship to others, especially to our children? What responsibilities do the elders of the church have as under-shepherds of Christ?

Quotes for thought and discussion:

“Every sin, both original and actual, being a transgression of the righteous law of God, and contrary thereunto, doth, in its own nature, bring guilt upon the sinner; whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God, and curse of the law, and so made subject to death, with all miseries spiritual, temporal, and eternal.” (Westminster Confession of Faith 6.6)

“What sad thoughts should we have of this primitive original sin, that hath created so many miseries! What honey can be got out of this lion? What grapes can we gather off this thorn? It sets heaven and earth against us. While we choose this bramble to rule, fire comes out of the bramble to devour us.

“How are all believers bound to Jesus Christ, who has freed them from the misery to which sin has exposed them! ‘In whom we have redemption through his blood.’ Eph. 1:7. Sin has brought trouble and a curse into the world: Christ has sanctified the trouble, and removed the curse. Nay, he has not only freed believers from misery, but purchased for them a crown of glory and immortality. ‘When the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.’ 1 Peter 5:4.” (Thomas Watson)

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