Depravity

In a biblical context, depravity refers to the moral corruption and inherent sinful nature of humanity as a result of the Fall, as described in Genesis 3. The concept is primarily derived from passages that highlight the fallen state of mankind, such as Jeremiah 17:9, which states, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" This reflects the belief that human beings, apart from divine intervention, are inclined towards sin and rebellion against God. Theologically, depravity is often discussed in terms of total depravity, particularly within Reformed theology, which posits that every aspect of humanity—mind, will, and emotions—has been affected by sin. Romans 3:10-12 reinforces this notion, declaring, "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God." This total depravity underscores the necessity of grace and redemption through Jesus Christ, who offers salvation and restores the relationship between God and humanity (Ephesians 2:8-9). Thus, in biblical terms, depravity emphasizes the profound need for divine grace to overcome the innate sinful tendencies of human nature.

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