Scripture Query and Answer: Our Besetting Sin

Hebrews 12:1  •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 6
Q. What is our besetting sin, in Heb. 12:11Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (Hebrews 12:1)? Is not unbelief the sin which so easily besets us all as saints? If what is popularly known as “besetting sin” was intended, would it not have been expressed thus—and the sins which do so easily beset us? If we believed everything said in the word, would we not be strong and unconquerable?
W. G.
A. I agree with the querist, that the popular application does not seem to be the thought intended. Neither is it to be restricted to the particular sin of unbelief. Cares, &c, may weigh down the Christian in his race; lusts of any kind may entangle his feet. All these are to be cast off, and only can be by looking away unto Jesus.