Total depravity facts for kids

Total depravity is a big idea in theology, which is the study of God and religious beliefs. It's also called total inability or total corruption. This idea comes from the teachings of an ancient thinker named Augustine.

It teaches that ever since the "Fall of Man" (a story in the Bible about the first humans), every person born into the world is deeply affected by sin. This means that, without special help from God (called "irresistible grace"), people cannot truly choose to follow God or accept the free gift of salvation He offers.

Many Protestant Christian groups teach this idea. These include Lutheranism, Methodism, Arminianism, and Calvinism.

What Does Total Depravity Mean?

This idea doesn't mean people are as bad as they can possibly be. It means that sin has affected every part of a person: their mind, emotions, and will. Because of this, people cannot choose God on their own. They need God's help to understand Him and want to follow Him.

The Idea of Original Sin

The concept of total depravity is linked to "original sin". This is the belief that when the first humans disobeyed God, sin entered the world. This sin then affected all people born after them. It's like a spiritual sickness that everyone inherits.

How Sin Affects Everyone

According to this teaching, sin isn't just about doing bad things. It's a condition that makes it hard for people to do what is truly good in God's eyes. It means that people naturally turn away from God, not towards Him.

Different Christian Views

Not all Christian groups agree on the exact meaning or extent of total depravity. However, it is a core teaching for many.

Lutheranism and Total Depravity

Lutheranism teaches that humans are born with original sin and cannot, by their own power, truly believe in God or choose good. They need the Holy Spirit to help them.

Calvinism and Total Depravity

Calvinism also strongly teaches total depravity. It says that because of sin, people are unable to choose God unless God first changes their hearts. This is part of a larger set of beliefs often called the "five points of Calvinism."

Arminianism and God's Grace

Arminianism agrees that humans are affected by sin and need God's grace. However, it teaches that God's grace allows people to respond to Him, meaning they can choose to accept or reject salvation.

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