Lesson 6: Actual Sin Flashcards
Is original sin the only kind of sin?
Original sin is not the only kind of sin; there is another kind, called actual sin, which we ourselves commit.
What is actual sin?
Actual sin is any willful thought, desire, word, action, or omission forbidden by the law of God.
How many kinds of actual sin are there?
There are two kinds of actual sin: mortal sin and venial sin.
What is mortal sin?
Mortal sin is a grievous offense against the law of God.
Why is this sin called mortal?
This sin is called mortal because it robs us of sanctifying grace.
What is sanctifying grace?
Sanctifying grace is divine life in the soul, which comes to us in Baptism and is lost only by mortal sin.
What three things are necessary to make a sin mortal?
To make a sin mortal, these three things are necessary.
First, the thought, desire, word, action or omission must be seriously wrong or considered seriously wrong;
Second, the sinner must know it is seriously wrong;
Third, the sinner must fully consent to it.
What is venial sin?
Venial sin is a less serious offense against the law of God.
How can a sin be venial?
A sin can be venial in two ways:
First, when the evil done is not seriously wrong;
Second, when the evil done is seriously wrong, but the sinner sincerely believes it is only slightly wrong, or does not give full consent to it.
