Why You Shouldn’t Call Yourself a Sinner

Many Believers struggle with their identity, often referring to themselves as "sinners." While it is true that all have sinned (Romans 3:23), continuing to call yourself a sinner after accepting Jesus Christ can be misleading and blasphemous. It contradicts the truth of what Jesus accomplished on the cross and the new identity He has given believers. Here’s why you should embrace your identity as a redeemed child of God instead of holding onto the label of a sinner.

Jesus Paid for Your Sins in Full

When Jesus died on the cross, He declared, “It is finished” (John 19:30). This means that the debt of sin was fully paid. If you continue to call yourself a sinner, it implies that Jesus' sacrifice was not enough to cleanse you completely. However, Scripture assures us that His blood has washed us clean (1 John 1:7).

You Are a New Creation in Christ

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” When you accept Jesus, your old sinful nature is put to death, and you are given a new identity in Him. Calling yourself a sinner focuses on who you used to be rather than who you are in Christ.

The Bible Calls Believers Saints, Not Sinners

Throughout the New Testament, believers are referred to as “saints” rather than sinners. Paul often addressed Christians as saints in his letters (Romans 1:7, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1). This does not mean that Christians never sin, but it signifies that their identity is now in Christ, not in their past failures.

Sin No Longer Has Power Over You

Romans 6:6-7 states, “For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin—because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” When you call yourself a sinner, you reinforce the idea that sin still controls you. However, as a believer, you have been set free from the power of sin.

Your Identity Should Align with God’s Truth

Proverbs 23:7 says, “For as he thinks in his heart, so is he.” If you constantly call yourself a sinner, you will live with a defeated mindset. But if you believe and declare that you are redeemed, righteous, and a child of God, you will live in the victory that Jesus has given you.

Jesus Came to Make You Righteous

2 Corinthians 5:21 states, “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” This means that because of Jesus, you are no longer defined by your sin but by His righteousness. To continue calling yourself a sinner disregards the righteousness that Christ has given you.

Walking in Your New Identity Strengthens Your Faith

Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” If you are no longer condemned, why hold onto the label of a sinner? Walking in the truth of your new identity gives you confidence in your relationship with God and strengthens your faith.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Identity in Christ

Yes, Christians still make mistakes, but our identity is no longer that of a sinner. We are redeemed, righteous, and children of God through Jesus Christ. Calling yourself a sinner undermines the work of the cross and keeps you focused on your past rather than the freedom Christ has given you. Instead, declare what God says about you—you are forgiven, set free, and made new in Christ.