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In a recent discussion with a woman, the response to my teaching on sins of ignorance was, "I don’t think any sin ever crept up on anyone. Sin is intentional." It is truly amazing to see brethren who present themselves as truth-seeking so quick to give heed and accept the teaching of well-known preachers - men who preach at gospel meetings, write in journals, and lambast their enemies while preaching their hobbies on podcasts instead of doing their own study.
The Bible addresses the concept of sins of ignorance, which refer to transgressions committed unknowingly or unintentionally due to a lack of knowledge or understanding of God's laws. These sins are distinct from willful or deliberate sins, as they occur without the conscious intent to disobey God. While I know of no actual personal example, the teaching is unquestionably found in both the Old and New Testaments.
Old Testament
In the Old Testament, the concept of sins of ignorance is prominently addressed in the Mosaic Law. For example, Leviticus 4:2 states, "Speak to the Israelites and say, 'When anyone sins unintentionally and does what is forbidden in any of the LORD's commands-'". The sacrificial system included provisions for unintentional sins, emphasizing God's grace and the need for atonement. Numbers 15:27-29 further elaborates, "Also, if one person sins unintentionally, he is to present a year-old female goat as a sin offering. The priest is to make atonement before the LORD for the one who erred by sinning unintentionally, and when atonement has been made for him, he will be forgiven. You shall have the same law for the person who sins unintentionally, whether he is a native-born Israelite or a foreigner residing among you."
New Testament
The New Testament continues to acknowledge the reality of sins committed in ignorance. In Acts 3:17, Peter addresses the Israelites, saying, "And now, brothers, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did your leaders." The Apostle Paul also speaks to this issue in 1 Timothy 1:13, where he reflects on his past actions: "Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief."
The provision for sins of ignorance underscores the grace and mercy of God. While ignorance does not absolve one of guilt, it highlights God's willingness to forgive and restore those who seek atonement.
Although sins of ignorance are committed without intent, individuals are still held accountable. The requirement for atonement in the Old Testament and the call to repentance in the New Testament emphasize the importance of addressing these sins.
Why have some brethren taken the stand that we don't commit sins of ignorance, such as the woman who said, "I don't think any sin ever crept up on anyone. Sin is intentional."? Well, it is simple. They reject the teaching of 1 John 1:7 and other passages that teach continual cleansing, yet they realize that doing so leaves them without confidence, spiritual security, and even hope. While they have not totally rejected the grace of God and may even say that His grace takes care of us, they continue to deny their sins (1 John 1:9) and base their salvation on being "without sin," which John condemned in no uncertain terms (1 John 1:8). This is NOT an acceptable solution to the consequences of rejecting continual cleansing. Making false accusations - such as labeling it Calvinism - only creates confusion, sets a poor example, and adds to their wrongdoing.
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