Is someone committing a sin if they think of committing a sin?

[Tyler_Larew]

Here is a good question that I at times have always wondered about. That question is, can a person be in sin if they consider doing something sinful with full knowledge and consent, but then later on realize what they are truly considering and there for not commit the sin. Sometimes I find myself in situations where I nearly give into my temptations, I get to a point where I start to think about me possibly doing things that are sinful, however with the help of God I am able to pull myself out of such thought. I am curious to if such contemplation is sinful, or if it is just apart of temptation?

 

[JRKH]

Here is a good question that I at times have always wondered about. That question is, can a person be in sin if they consider doing something sinful with full knowledge and consent, but then later on realize what they are truly considering and there for not commit the sin. Sometimes I find myself in situations where I nearly give into my temptations, I get to a point where I start to think about me possibly doing things that are sinful, however with the help of God I am able to pull myself out of such thought. I am curious to if such contemplation is sinful, or if it is just apart of temptation?

Your first sentence is somewhat contradictory…How can you be in a state of “full knowledge” if it is only “later on” that you realize what you are truly considering?

That aside…Yes one can sin in thought if one consciously dwells on, embraces and takes pleasure in the thought - the scenario etc. Jesus is very clear on this point.

Now - that said - We all deal with temptations and temptations do NOT automatically equal sin. Of course sometimes these are temptations are strong and can overpower us so that we DO give in to inappropriate “day dreaming”. We can be thankful when we come to our senses - recognize the sinful nature of the thought or wish and turn from it before we can act.

Peace
James