The Great Sin What quality is most detested by God? What attitude of heart will always bring about a downfall? What character trait will ensure that there will be division? What quality cannot co- exist with love? Pride is the answer in cach case, and that is quite a list, These are not the conclusions of modem moral phi- losophers, These are the clear statements of Scripture. When CS. Lewis called pride the “Great Sin,” he could not have been on firmer Biblical ground. It can be azgued that there is no sin that is not somehow rooted in pride. Consider a few examples: * Sexual immorality: “I deserve to have my pleasure, and I should not have to worry about consequences.” * Lying: “I do not trust that God can work through the truth. | have more confidence in my ability to deceive and to distort the facts,” * Hatred; “I am better than you are, and | have a right to despise you for what you have done or what you are.” * Rebellion; "I know better than my leaders, and | can accomplish better things by doing what | want to do.” * Ignoring the needs of others: “My life is the most im- portant thing: accomplishing my goals, getting my pleasure, fulfilling my needs.” * Ingratitude: “I have what | have because | worked for it, or at least because | deserve it. Plus, there are other things that | deserve to have.” * Disobedience: “I know the Bible says this, but I have a better way.” * Discord: "I have no need fora relationship with you. I will be able to accomplish what | need to without unity.” © Prejudice and racism: “Those people just aren't. as good ag we are.”