This Latin phrase brought into our lexicon by Augustine so truly represents the brokenness of man. I cannot not sin exposes the hopelessness of our efforts to save ourselves. There is nothing I can do to make myself right with God, that work of justification could only have been done at the cross. I truly feel that I can do no good without Him, my flesh is weak and my unguided choices are poor.
Unfortunately, Christians are often hesitant to make the point that we are saved by His grace despite our transgression thinking that it leads to an abuse of this unmerited favor and a rationalization for bad behavior. As for me, I will continue to speak boldly of His great power and willingness to save in the face of my own personal failings. I understand that free will is based on the power of contrary selection; so yes, everyday I make hundreds of choices between good and evil. In the midst of a Spirit led sanctification process I make more honoring choices today than I did yesterday. But still, I acknowledge that I will never be holy and perfect until that day of Jesus Christ.
If Christ's work paid the price for all my sins now and forever does that alleviate my requirement to act justly? Does inability destroy responsibility? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? Paul answered, "God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? ... Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin." We are new men and our strength to not sin (posse non peccare) is derived solely from the renovation, redemption and restoration caused and directed by His Holy Spirit that dwells within us. For that I will be forever thankful.
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