The Biology of Sin: Grace, Hope and Healing for Those Who Feel Trapped

by Matthew S. Stanford

There are heated discussions happening on the conflict between science and faith. This disagreement tends to focus around three main issues, one of them being what causes our sinful behavior. The intense conflict has to do with biblically defined sinful behaviors and if there just might be a biological predisposition for these behaviors. The Biology of Sin speaks to this debate and hopefully brings some resolution to the conflict. As both a Christian and a neuroscientist, Dr. Stanford has seen scientific knowledge distorted to justify sinful behavior and perhaps more disturbingly, he has seen Christians misuse Scripture to demonize and alienate the very ones they should be reaching out to. He suggests that the underlying cause of this problem in the church is a lack of knowledge, both of basic brain function and scriptural teaching. The Biology of Sin discusses sinful behaviors, including adultery, rage, addiction, and homosexuality, asking of each: What does science say, and what does the Bible say about this behavior? He then attempts to reconcile the fact that biological predispositions do play a role in behavior which the Bible defines as sinful while always emphasizing the authority of God's Holy Word and the abundant grace he has for those struggling with habitual sin.

Genres: Nonfiction, Psychology, Christian, Theology, Science

166 pages, Paperback

First published August 10, 2010

Reviews

[Lee Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book! Written by a practicing professor of psychology, neuroscience, and biomedical studies, the book is a serious study of the overlap of biology and sin.

Far from being soft on sin or dismissive of biology, the book covers the subject in great detail.

This is an informative work, and is a great tool for understanding many current life issues in the church.

Can’t recommend it highly enough.

Critical read if you want to understand discipleship.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75/5

I was a bit disappointed by this book but also recognize it was written ten years ago. Stafford clearly understands the neuroscience of problems and had a desire for Christ and others to know His transforming power. Where the book fell short was in how to intervene in ways that impact the brain. The integration of the spiritual and biological was lacking in most of the sections in my opinion (compared to something like Anatomy of the Soul by Curt Thompson). Nonetheless, I learned a great deal about the biology of dysfunction/sin and considering the title of the book, I suppose it accomplished its primary task.

[Jason Kanz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matthew Standford wrote The Biology of Sin (2010). In this book, he explores several conditions that are often labeled sinful including things like rage, homosexuality, lust, and so forth. Stanford, a neuroscientist and professor at Baylor university, does a very good job of exploring the neurobiological underpinnings of a number of disorders without minimizing responsibility. Further, as he did in his book, Grace for the Afflicted, he discusses how churches can appropriately respond to individuals who are dealing with mental illness. I would strongly commend this book to you.

[Glen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book. Would recommend to pastors and chaplains. Nothing too technical. Appreciate the scriptural references.

[Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A helpful corrective to over conservative thinking on sin.