Evangelical View on Slavery to Sin
Evangelicals typically interpret the concept of “slavery to sin” through the lens of traditional Christian theology, emphasizing the freeing power of Jesus Christ through faith and grace. They believe that before accepting Christ, individuals are bound by sin, representing a state of spiritual bondage. Upon believing in Christ, Evangelicals hold that believers are liberated from this bondage, allowing them to live in a new way, empowered by the Holy Spirit. This liberation is viewed as both a spiritual awakening and a practical transformation, where individuals strive to live in accordance with biblical teachings and ethical standards, reflecting their new status as children of God.
Amish View on Slavery to Sin
The Amish perspective on “slavery to sin” is rooted in community, humility, and a commitment to a lifestyle that emphasizes simplicity and obedience to God’s commands. While they also recognize the concept of being enslaved by sin, their understanding places greater emphasis on communal accountability and the importance of living out faith in daily life. They believe that through constant striving to adhere to the Ordnung (the Amish set of rules for behavior) and practicing mutual aid within the community, individuals can overcome sin. The Amish highlight that liberation from sin is an ongoing process, requiring sustained personal effort, community support, and adherence to their interpretation of Scripture.
Comparison of the Two Views
The Evangelical approach to slavery to sin emphasizes individual transformation and a personal relationship with Jesus as the key to liberation. In contrast, the Amish view stresses the collective journey of faith and the role of community in fostering spiritual growth. While both groups acknowledge the necessity of divine help in overcoming sin, the Evangelical focus is more on individual salvation and grace, whereas the Amish perspective is rooted in communal practices and lifestyle adherence as essential to addressing sin.
