Definition and Concept

Depravity, in theological terms, refers to the inherent corruption and sinfulness of human nature due to the Fall of Man. It is the moral and spiritual condition that affects every person, rendering them incapable of choosing or doing good apart from divine grace. This concept is rooted in the doctrine of original sin, which posits that humanity inherits a sinful nature from Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous passages that illustrate the concept of depravity. In Genesis 6:5 , it is written, "Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time." This verse highlights the pervasive nature of human sinfulness.

The Apostle Paul further expounds on this in Romans 3:10-12 , quoting the Psalms: "There is no one righteous, not even one. There is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away; they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one." This passage underscores the universality of sin and the inability of humans to achieve righteousness on their own.

Theological Implications

Depravity is often discussed in the context of Total Depravity, a doctrine particularly emphasized in Reformed theology. Total Depravity does not mean that humans are as evil as they could be, but rather that sin affects every part of a person—mind, will, emotions, and body. This condition necessitates divine intervention for salvation, as humans are unable to come to God without His enabling grace.

Ephesians 2:1-3 describes the state of humanity before receiving God's grace: "As for you, you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you used to walk when you conformed to the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience. All of us also lived among them at one time, fulfilling the cravings of our flesh and indulging its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature children of wrath."

Human Responsibility and Divine Grace

While depravity highlights human inability, it does not negate human responsibility. Scripture calls individuals to repentance and faith. Acts 17:30 states, "Although God overlooked the ignorance of earlier times, He now commands all people everywhere to repent." This call to repentance is made possible through the grace of God, who enables individuals to respond to His call.

The transformative power of God's grace is evident in passages like Titus 3:5 : "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit." This verse emphasizes that salvation is a work of God, not a result of human effort.

Conclusion

Understanding depravity is crucial for grasping the depth of human sinfulness and the necessity of divine grace for salvation. It serves as a reminder of the fallen state of humanity and the transformative power of God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ.