The New Testament writers used several Greek words for sin. However, those most frequently used can be summed up in four predominant terms. Each can be illustrated using a basketball free-throw analogy.

First, missing the mark (hamartia) is attempting to make the shot, but missing it. Second, twisting a wrong to make it right (adikia) is missing the shot, then going ahead and telling everyone that we made it anyway. Third, missing on purpose (anomia) is obviously shooting to miss. Finally, leaving good undone (paraptoma) is not shooting at all. We step up to the line with the basketball in our hands, knowing what to do, and never release it toward the goal.

How are you approaching your attempts at the line of life? Are you missing the mark, twisting a wrong to make it right, missing on purpose, or leaving good undone? King Solomon taught: “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy” (Proverbs 28:13). Surrender your sins to the Restorer who will rebound your misses and score for His kingdom.

For more, watch The Restoration Road with Mitch Kruse, Episode 7: A Fool’s Sin and the Restorer’s Grace

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