The Process of Sin

84. First the memory brings some passion-free thought into the intellect. By its lingering there, passion is aroused. When the passion is not eradicated, it persuades the intellect to assent to it. Once this assent is given, the actual sin is then committed. Therefore, when writing to converts from paganism, St Paul in his wisdom orders them first to eliminate the actual sin and then systematically to work back to the cause. The cause, as we have already said, is greed, which generates and promotes passion. I think that greed in this case means gluttony, because this is the mother and nurse of unchastity. For greed is a sin not only with regard to possessions hut also with regard to food, just as self-control likewise relates to both food and possessions.

St. Maximus the Confessor Four Hundred Centuries on Love: #84

Maximus the Confessor outlines the process by which sin takes root in the soul. First, a passion-free thought enters the intellect. If it lingers, it arouses passion. If the passion is not eradicated, it persuades the intellect to assent, leading to the actual sin. Therefore, St. Paul advises eliminating the actual sin first and then addressing the underlying causes, such as greed.

Imagine a small spark in a forest. If left unattended, it can grow into a raging wildfire, consuming everything in its path. Similarly, a passion-free thought, if allowed to linger, can ignite the passions and lead to sin. By addressing the root causes, we can prevent the spark from becoming a destructive force.

This process requires vigilance and self-awareness. By understanding how sin develops, we can take proactive steps to purify our thoughts and desires, aligning them with God’s will and avoiding the pitfalls of sin.