Total depravity

Definition

Total depravity is a theological concept in Christian doctrine that asserts that as a result of the Fall, every aspect of humanity is corrupted by sin. This means that individuals are unable to choose God or do good without divine intervention, as sin has affected the mind, will, and emotions. This idea is foundational in understanding the nature of humanity and salvation within certain branches of Protestantism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Total depravity does not mean that individuals are as evil as they could be, but rather that every part of a person's being is tainted by sin.
2. This doctrine emphasizes the necessity of grace for salvation, asserting that humans cannot choose to follow God without it.
3. Total depravity is closely associated with Calvinist theology, particularly within its five points known as TULIP.
4. Lutheran theology also acknowledges a form of total depravity, though with different implications for free will and grace.
5. The belief in total depravity challenges the notion of human goodness and highlights the need for redemption through Jesus Christ.

Review Questions

• How does total depravity shape the understanding of human nature within Lutheranism and Calvinism?
  • Total depravity fundamentally influences how both Lutheranism and Calvinism view human nature, suggesting that all people are inherently sinful and incapable of choosing God on their own. In Calvinism, this leads to an emphasis on predestination and God's sovereign grace, while Lutheranism recognizes human inability but also highlights the role of faith as a gift from God. Both traditions agree that divine intervention is necessary for any genuine good or spiritual life.
• Discuss the implications of total depravity for the concept of free will in Calvinist thought.
  • In Calvinist thought, total depravity implies that free will is severely compromised due to sin. Humans are seen as incapable of making choices toward salvation without God's grace. This contrasts with other views that may argue for a degree of human agency. The Calvinist perspective emphasizes that even the ability to choose God comes solely from God's grace acting upon an individual, thus reinforcing the idea that salvation is entirely dependent on divine initiative rather than human effort.
• Evaluate how total depravity interacts with the doctrines of grace and redemption in Reformed theology.
  • Total depravity serves as a crucial foundation for understanding grace and redemption in Reformed theology. It posits that since all aspects of humanity are marred by sin, individuals are wholly reliant on God's unmerited favor for salvation. This interconnection reinforces the belief in irresistible grace; if total depravity renders people incapable of seeking God on their own, then God's grace must actively draw them to faith. Consequently, the doctrines surrounding redemption emphasize not just forgiveness but a transformative work initiated by God, highlighting both His justice and mercy.

Related terms

Original Sin: The doctrine that all human beings inherit a sinful nature due to the first sin committed by Adam and Eve.

Irresistible Grace: The belief that God's grace is given to the elect in such a way that they cannot resist it and will inevitably come to faith.

Totalitarianism: A political system in which the state holds total authority over the society and seeks to control all aspects of public and private life, often used metaphorically to describe the extent of sin's influence on humanity.