Total Depravity
In this episode, the Team discusses what the Bible has to say about the nature and extent of humans after the Fall. Are humans as rotten as they can be? Can we become more depraved over time?
Does our fallen nature make it impossible for us to respond to God in any way other than hatred and hostility?
Let’s talk about it.
Key Takeaways
Total depravity refers to the fallen nature of humanity, which is inclined to sin and rebellion against God.
While people are born into sin and have a natural inclination to go their own way, they are not born hating God and are still capable of doing some good.
Good deeds done by unregenerate individuals may be objectively good, but they are tainted by the corrupt nature of humanity and fall short of God's standard.
The doctrine of total depravity highlights the need for salvation and the inability of human beings to save themselves. Human nature is complex and can exhibit contradictions, with the ability to do both good and evil actions.
The motive behind an action determines its moral value, with actions done for the benefit of others considered good.
While human actions may fall short of God's perfect standard, they can still be considered good to some degree.
The concept of merit in relation to salvation is complex, with the understanding that no human action can earn salvation.
The perfect goodness of God sets the standard for righteousness, and human actions are always inferior to His perfect standard. Human depravity is a reality that affects every aspect of our being.
The ability to respond to God is a complex issue with different interpretations.
God's grace is necessary for salvation and the ability to seek Him.
Trusting in God's goodness and following His commands leads to true life.