The human condition is one of inherent sinfulness; people are not naturally good but are corrupt, spiritually dead, and separated from God. Genesis 6:11 describes humanity as filled with violence and corruption, while Romans 3:23 confirms all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory. Ephesians 2:1-3 explains that apart from Christ, we are spiritually dead and “children of wrath,” incapable of choosing or pleasing God in our natural state. To be spiritually dead means lacking the capacity for righteousness or relationship with God, and as children of wrath, we justly face His judgment.
Sin’s scope is universal and deeply ingrained. Genesis 6:5 and Romans 3:10-18 show that no one is righteous or seeks God on their own, as sin affects every aspect of our being. While some may object, arguing that humans are capable of good deeds, these are insufficient for reconciliation with God because they do not meet His perfect standard. Others reject this doctrine because it challenges self-reliance, but this is precisely the point: Scripture consistently teaches that salvation is by grace alone, not through human effort (Ephesians 2:8-9).
Our total depravity highlights the need for salvation through Jesus Christ, our only hope. His perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection provide the righteousness we cannot achieve. It should move us as Christians into an attitude of humble thankfulness knowing that we are no better than any other apart from grace. Our response must be one of praise, worship, and preaching the Gospel, representing God’s love and mercy to a lost world. Objections to this doctrine often stem from misunderstanding or pride, but when viewed through the lens of Scripture, it magnifies God’s grace and points us to the only source of hope: Jesus Christ.
Soli Deo Gloria—To God alone be the glory.
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