North Athens Baptist Church

A few days ago, a group of local pastors were asked to review some material that dealt with the doctrine of original sin.  The material in question stated that “the dogma of original sin is difficult to find in the Scripture.”  Since this is my blog, let me say that I think that statement to be absurd and that original sin is definitely, clearly and pervasively taught in the Scriptures!  When we speak of original sin we do not refer to the sin that Adam and Eve committed.  We are, however, talking about the result of that first sin.  Original sin refers to our sinful condition, from which actual sins flow.  We sin because we are sinners; we are not sinners because we sin.  We sin because, since the fall, it is the nature of human beings to be drawn to sin and away from righteousness.  David says that he was born in sin, and in sin he was conceived (Ps.  51:5).  The Bible teaches that not only are we persons from the moment of conception, but we are sinful persons.  Read the first three chapters of Romans and concentrate on 3:10-18 and it becomes evident that Paul’s assessment of humanity is far different than most starry-eyed optimist preachers of our day.  Romans 5:12 makes it clear that “all sinned” in Adam and that all who believe are made alive in Christ.  Original sin and the total depravity of mankind is a Biblical truth.  In the next post I will talk a little about total depravity and what it means.