In almost all cities, the management of waste, liquid, and solid waste is a significant challenge. New technologies are introduced, yet new challenges keep mounting. Sin is compared with dross, the scum that forms on the surface of precious metal when refined. (Psalms 119:118-120) It is discarded by the metalsmith. (Isaiah 1:22; Jeremiah 6:28-30; Ezekiel 22:18-19) Sin is compared to dross because it defiles God’s creation and devalues human dignity.
Dirt and Impurity: Sin is compared with dirt or impurity that corrupts a person. That makes a person unworthy to come into the presence of God. It damages the relationship with God, His Law, and others.
Dull: Dross or scum deprives the shine and glory of a metal. The shiny metal looks dull. The Bible declares that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
Deceptive: A layer of dross looks like the metal on which it stays. But it is not the metal, hence deceptive. A sinner could pretend to be righteous, but all the righteousness of sinners is filthy rags.
Dust like: Uselessness is sin like dust. Valueless, worthless, useless, and purposeless. Sin does not contribute anything good or beautiful. It is also a hindrance and obstacle for humans to have fellowship with God.
Damage: Dross could damage the metal as it leads to rust. Metal with dross will be corrupted and eaten away. Sin robs a person of dignity, self-esteem, and confidence. Physically, mentally, psychologically, and spiritually, a person is damaged and deprived of wholesomeness.
Detergent: Dross has to be removed for metal to be useful and productive. “Take away the dross from the silver, and the smith has material for a vessel.” (Proverbs 25:4) God wants to use His saints, but the dross has to be removed. It is good to voluntarily confess, repent, and forsake sins. Otherwise, God could send his agents of sanctification, which could be difficult situations, sickness, suffering, harassment, financial difficulties, breakdown of relationships, etc. In distress, they could call upon God and get relief.
Do I understand sin as dross and keep away from it?