Definition:
Human inability refers to the theological concept that, due to the fall of man and the inherent sin nature, humans are incapable of achieving righteousness or salvation through their own efforts. This doctrine emphasizes the necessity of divine grace for salvation and spiritual growth.

Biblical Foundation:
The concept of human inability is rooted in the narrative of the fall in Genesis 3, where Adam and Eve's disobedience introduced sin into the world, affecting all of humanity. This inherent sinfulness is described in Romans 5:12, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."

Total Depravity:
Human inability is closely associated with the doctrine of total depravity, which asserts that every aspect of human nature is tainted by sin. This does not mean that humans are as sinful as possible, but rather that sin affects all parts of a person. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This verse highlights the depth of human sinfulness and the inability to achieve righteousness on one's own.

Inability to Achieve Righteousness:
Scripture consistently teaches that humans cannot attain righteousness through their own works. Isaiah 64:6 declares, "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away." This imagery underscores the futility of human efforts to achieve holiness apart from God.

Need for Divine Intervention:
The New Testament further elaborates on human inability by emphasizing the necessity of divine intervention for salvation. Ephesians 2:8-9 explains, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage highlights that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human effort.

Role of the Holy Spirit:
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in overcoming human inability. John 16:8-11 describes the Spirit's work in convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. Additionally, Romans 8:26-27 speaks of the Spirit's assistance in prayer, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans."

Faith and Regeneration:
Human inability necessitates the work of regeneration, where the Holy Spirit imparts new life to the believer. Jesus explains this to Nicodemus in John 3:3, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." This new birth is essential for overcoming the spiritual deadness caused by sin.

Dependence on Christ:
The doctrine of human inability underscores the believer's dependence on Christ for salvation and sanctification. In John 15:5, Jesus states, "I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing." This metaphor illustrates the necessity of abiding in Christ to produce spiritual fruit.

Conclusion:
Human inability is a foundational concept that highlights the necessity of God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. It serves as a reminder of the limitations of human effort and the sufficiency of Christ's redemptive work.