The Adamic Covenant refers to God’s dealings with Adam and Eve as representatives of humanity in the creation and fall narrative, primarily located in Genesis 1–3. This covenant establishes humanity’s responsibility, the consequences of disobedience, and the promise of redemption. It is foundational to Christian theology concerning sin, free will, and salvation.
II. Scriptures Supporting the Doctrine of the Adamic Covenant
1. Genesis 1:26 (KJV) – “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”
- Interpretation: Humanity was created uniquely, bearing God’s image.
- Theological View: Man’s creation in God’s image implies a covenantal relationship, with moral responsibility and dominion over creation.
2. Genesis 2:16-17 (KJV) – “And the Lord God commanded the man, saying… thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”
- Interpretation: A divine command with a consequence—death for disobedience.
- Theological View: This is seen as the core of the covenant—a moral test with life or death consequences.
3. Genesis 3:6 (KJV) – “And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food… she took of the fruit… and did eat…”
- Interpretation: The moment of the fall through disobedience.
- Theological View: Humanity broke covenant through sin, bringing in the curse and the need for redemption.
4. Genesis 3:15 (KJV) – “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman… it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.”
- Interpretation: First prophecy of a Redeemer (the “protoevangelium”).
- Theological View: A promise of salvation despite the fall—showing God’s covenantal mercy.
5. Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin…”
- Interpretation: Adam’s sin introduced death and sin to all mankind.
- Theological View: Federal headship of Adam—his sin is imputed to all humanity.
6. 1 Corinthians 15:22 (KJV) – “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”
- Interpretation: Death through Adam, life through Christ.
- Theological View: Contrasts Adamic failure with Christ’s redemptive success—central to covenant theology.
7. Hosea 6:7 (KJV) – “But they like men have transgressed the covenant…”
- Interpretation: “Men” (Hebrew: Adam) may refer to Adam’s covenant breaking.
- Theological View: Possible explicit reference to a covenant with Adam.
8. Job 31:33 (KJV) – “If I covered my transgressions as Adam…”
- Interpretation: Adam acknowledged as the first sinner trying to hide sin.
- Theological View: Shows continuity in sin nature from Adam to later generations.
III. Scriptures Sometimes Used Against or to Reinterpret Traditional Views
1. Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father…”
- Interpretation: Individual responsibility for sin.
- Theological View: Challenges the imputation of Adam’s guilt to his descendants.
2. Deuteronomy 24:16 (KJV) – “The fathers shall not be put to death for the children…”
- Interpretation: Reinforces personal accountability.
- Theological View: May oppose the idea that all humans bear Adam’s guilt.
3. Romans 2:6 (KJV) – “Who will render to every man according to his deeds:”
- Interpretation: Judgment is based on individual actions.
- Theological View: Supports a personal, rather than inherited, view of sin.
4. Ecclesiastes 7:29 (KJV) – “Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many inventions.”
- Interpretation: Man was made righteous, but chose sin later.
- Theological View: Emphasizes personal corruption rather than inherited guilt.
5. Isaiah 7:15-16 (KJV) – “…he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.”
- Interpretation: Moral discernment develops with age.
- Theological View: Challenges doctrines asserting total depravity from birth.
6. Matthew 18:3 (KJV) – “Except ye be converted, and become as little children…”
- Interpretation: Children are seen as examples of purity or innocence.
- Theological View: Implies children are not born guilty.
7. James 1:14-15 (KJV) – “But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust…”
- Interpretation: Sin originates in personal desire.
- Theological View: Emphasizes experiential sin rather than inherited sin.
8. Ezekiel 28:15 (KJV) – “Thou wast perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast created…”
- Interpretation: Describes the original state of creation before corruption.
- Theological View: Can suggest perfection existed before individual fall rather than inherent sinfulness post-Adam.
Translation Debates
I. Introduction to the Translational Challenges
The Adamic Covenant involves key concepts like the creation of humanity, the fall of Adam, original sin, and the resulting consequences for humankind. The Hebrew Scriptures (particularly the Old Testament) present the foundation for these doctrines, while the Greek New Testament offers explanations for their implications, especially in relation to sin and salvation. The King James Version (KJV), as a translation from both Hebrew and Greek texts, has its own unique renderings that sometimes require deeper examination.
II. Key Hebrew Terms in the Adamic Covenant (Creation and Fall)
- Genesis 1:26-27 (KJV) – “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness…”
- Hebrew: The word for “man” is אָדָם (’adam), which is derived from adamah (earth or ground). This word plays a pivotal role in understanding the creation of humanity in God’s image.
- ’adam refers to mankind as a whole, not just one individual, and is used in different contexts to indicate both humanity’s creation and the potential for fallibility.
- Theological Debate: The idea of ’adam being created in God’s image has led to varying interpretations on whether the image includes a spiritual likeness, moral responsibility, or both. Some argue it implies dominion over creation, while others focus on the moral aspect.
- Hebrew: The word for “man” is אָדָם (’adam), which is derived from adamah (earth or ground). This word plays a pivotal role in understanding the creation of humanity in God’s image.
- Genesis 2:17 (KJV) – “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.”
- Hebrew: The phrase “thou shalt surely die” is translated from מֹת תָּמוּת (moth tamuth), which literally means “dying, you shall die,” a Hebrew idiomatic construction emphasizing the certainty and seriousness of the death that would result from disobedience.
- Theological Debate: Some theologians question whether this death was meant to be immediate (physical death) or spiritual death (separation from God). The KJV renders it as a clear warning, but the term’s idiomatic nature leaves room for interpretation.
- Genesis 3:6 (KJV) – “And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food… she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat…”
- Hebrew: The word חַוָּה (chavah), meaning “Eve,” is derived from the root חיה (chayah), meaning “to live” or “life.” This plays into the theological notion that Eve, as the mother of all living, stands in contrast to the fall that introduced death into the world.
- Theological Debate: Some argue that Eve’s action is the key moment of human choice and free will, while others interpret this as a divine test that aligns with covenant theology.
III. Key Greek Terms in the New Testament
- Romans 5:12 (KJV) – *“Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin…”
- Greek: The Greek word for “sin” in this verse is ἁμαρτία (hamartia), which means missing the mark or falling short of God’s standard. The term ἁμαρτία emphasizes the sinful nature and the breach of moral law.
- Hamartia here is understood not just as an act of disobedience but as a state of being—humanity’s fallen nature passed down from Adam.
- Theological Debate: Some argue that hamartia should be seen in a more individualistic light (the personal failure of Adam) while others emphasize the corporate consequences for all of humanity, following the federal headship model where Adam’s sin is imputed to all.
- Greek: The Greek word for “sin” in this verse is ἁμαρτία (hamartia), which means missing the mark or falling short of God’s standard. The term ἁμαρτία emphasizes the sinful nature and the breach of moral law.
- 1 Corinthians 15:22 (KJV) – “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive.”
- Greek: The word for “die” is ἀποθνῄσκω (apothnesko), which is a form of dying, often used to describe physical or spiritual death. The contrast between Adam and Christ is built on apothnesko, emphasizing a transition from spiritual death to spiritual life.
- Theological Debate: This verse raises debates on original sin and whether death (spiritual and physical) is a direct consequence of Adam’s actions or whether it is part of a more general human condition. Some traditions hold that death was not God’s original design but became part of the human experience as a result of sin.
- Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: The word παράπτωμα (paraptoma), meaning “trespass” or “fall,” is used to describe Adam’s disobedience. It emphasizes a deviation from the law.
- Theological Debate: The debate here revolves around whether Adam’s act of disobedience has irrevocably affected all of humanity in terms of imputed guilt (as in traditional Reformed theology) or if it only introduced a susceptibility to sin, which later requires personal repentance (as in Arminian views).
IV. Issues in the English KJV Translation
- The Use of “Soul” and “Spirit”: In Genesis 2:7, the KJV translates נֶפֶשׁ (nephesh) as “soul” and רוּחַ (ruach) as “spirit.” This distinction, though accurate in one sense, can create theological confusion when considering the nature of Adam’s creation and fall. Some traditions interpret the nephesh as a unified “whole” being, while others emphasize a distinction between soul and spirit, which has implications for doctrines of human nature and salvation.
- “Death” and “Dying”: In Genesis 2:17, the translation “dying, thou shalt die” reflects a Hebraic idiom, but the KJV’s English construction doesn’t capture the full sense of this as a gradual process of spiritual death leading to physical death. Other translations, like the NASB, make this clearer by saying “you shall surely die.”
- Theological Terms: The KJV uses “sin” to translate ἁμαρτία (hamartia) and פֶּשַע (pesha), both of which cover a broad spectrum of moral transgression. The term “sin” can sometimes carry unintended theological weight, especially in doctrinal disputes about original sin and whether it implies inherited guilt or only a fallen nature.
V. The Accuracy of Greek Translations
While Greek is often seen as more precise in its technical vocabulary than English, there are certain challenges with translating Greek terms into English. For example, ἁμαρτία (hamartia) can refer both to specific acts of sin and the broader concept of a sinful nature. The KJV, by using “sin” in a broad sense, might sometimes understate or overstate the theological implications.
Furthermore, the nuances of Greek tenses, such as the aorist tense (which often indicates past, completed action) and the perfect tense (which indicates completed action with ongoing results), can sometimes get lost in English. This is significant in the interpretation of verses like Romans 5:12 (KJV), where the idea of sin entering the world by Adam’s disobedience could be better captured with the Greek perfect tense, which emphasizes the lasting impact of Adam’s sin on humanity.
VI. Summary
The doctrine of the Adamic Covenant, with its central themes of original sin, the fall of Adam, and humanity’s need for redemption, raises significant challenges in translation. The Hebrew texts in Genesis focus on humanity’s creation in God’s image and the fall’s consequences, while the Greek New Testament, particularly in Romans and 1 Corinthians, connects Adam’s sin to humanity’s state of death and need for salvation in Christ.
The KJV plays a central role in bridging the Hebrew and Greek texts for English-speaking Christians but can sometimes obscure the full meaning due to translation choices, especially in the terms for “sin,” “soul,” “spirit,” and “death.” Theological debates about imputed sin, original sin, and the extent of the fall hinge on these translations and their nuances.
Ultimately, while Greek and Hebrew offer precision in their original context, English translations like the KJV must navigate a variety of theological interpretations. These debates shape denominational understandings of the fall and redemption, leading to diverse views on the nature of sin and salvation across Christian traditions.
Denominational Views
1. Roman Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic Church holds that original sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience, and it is transmitted to all humans through human procreation. The Church teaches that baptism removes the guilt of original sin, but concupiscence (the inclination to sin) remains. Catholic theology emphasizes that salvation is through both faith and works, mediated by the Church and its sacraments, especially baptism.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – This word means transgression, which refers to falling aside or disobedience.
- Interpretation: Catholics interpret this as teaching that Adam’s sin led to the fall of all humanity. Christ’s obedience offers the remedy. Original sin is passed down through human procreation, but baptism removes its guilt.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – This word refers to iniquity or individual sin, and the passage stresses personal responsibility for sin.
- Interpretation: Critics argue that this verse refutes the idea of inherited guilt, suggesting that each person is accountable for their own sin rather than carrying the burden of Adam’s transgression.
2. Eastern Orthodox Church
The Eastern Orthodox Church teaches that original sin affected human nature, but it does not carry the same juridical interpretation as Roman Catholicism. They focus on sin as separation from God, and salvation is viewed as a process of becoming one with God (theosis) through grace, rather than simply being legally justified. Baptism removes the stain of original sin, but the inclination to sin remains.
- For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
- Greek: ἁμαρτία (hamartia) – The word for sin here refers to the condition of humanity because of Adam’s fall.
- Interpretation: Orthodox Christians interpret this as teaching that sin entered through Adam, resulting in all humanity being born into a state of spiritual death. However, Christ’s resurrection offers a path for humanity to be restored to life.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – This word refers to personal sin rather than inherited guilt.
- Interpretation: Critics argue that Ezekiel underscores individual responsibility, suggesting that sin is a personal choice and not an inherited condition from Adam.
3. Evangelical
Evangelicals affirm the doctrine of original sin, holding that all people are born with a sinful nature due to Adam’s fall. They emphasize that salvation comes through faith alone in Jesus Christ, and baptism is an outward sign of that faith. Evangelicals reject the notion of any work contributing to salvation apart from grace.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – This refers to a falling away or disobedience that affects all people.
- Interpretation: Evangelicals interpret this to mean that Adam’s sin brought death and separation from God to all humanity, but Christ’s obedience offers the remedy through justification and grace.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – This stresses individual responsibility for sin.
- Interpretation: Evangelical critics use this passage to argue that sin is personal and not something inherited from Adam. Thus, individuals are accountable for their own actions.
4. Protestant (General)
General Protestantism aligns with Evangelical views on original sin, asserting that all humans inherit a sinful nature through Adam’s fall. The doctrine of salvation by grace through faith alone is central, with emphasis on the sufficiency of Christ’s atonement for all believers. However, variations exist across denominations regarding baptism and its role in salvation.
- For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
- Greek: ἁμαρτία (hamartia) – Refers to sin, which is passed to all through Adam’s transgression.
- Interpretation: This passage is foundational for Protestant theology, reinforcing the belief that original sin has corrupted all of humanity, requiring Christ’s redemptive work.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – The word suggests individual sin.
- Interpretation: Critics argue that Ezekiel focuses on personal accountability and rejects the idea of inherited sin, as individuals are responsible for their own choices.
5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)
Baptists strongly uphold the doctrine of original sin and believe that all humans are born with a sinful nature. They emphasize that salvation is through faith alone and not through works or sacraments. Baptism is seen as an outward sign of inner faith, rather than a means of salvation.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – Refers to disobedience, which leads to sin.
- Interpretation: Baptists interpret this as showing the universality of Adam’s sin and the need for Christ’s righteousness to justify humanity.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – This speaks to individual sin.
- Interpretation: Critics of the doctrine of original sin use this verse to argue that each person is responsible for their own sin, not the sin of Adam.
6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)
Methodists affirm the doctrine of original sin but emphasize prevenient grace, which enables people to respond to God. While humanity is born with a sinful nature, God’s grace is available to all, allowing individuals to make a choice for salvation. The process of sanctification is central to Methodist thought.
- For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
- Greek: ἁμαρτία (hamartia) – Refers to sin, which is inherited through Adam’s fall.
- Interpretation: Methodists see this passage as affirming original sin but also emphasizing that God’s grace enables all people to respond to salvation.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – Refers to personal sin.
- Interpretation: This verse stresses individual accountability, leading some to believe that sin is not inherited but must be chosen.
7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)
Lutherans uphold the doctrine of original sin, asserting that all humans inherit a sinful nature through Adam’s fall. Salvation is through grace alone, and faith in Christ is the only means of reconciliation with God. They believe that baptism plays an important role in the salvation process.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – Refers to disobedience caused by Adam’s sin.
- Interpretation: Lutherans interpret this as showing that original sin entered through Adam and that Christ’s obedience restores humanity’s standing before God.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – Focuses on individual sin.
- Interpretation: Critics use this to argue that individual responsibility is emphasized here, suggesting that humans are not responsible for Adam’s sin.
8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)
Pentecostals hold to the doctrine of original sin, asserting that humans are born with a sinful nature that can only be cleansed through faith in Christ and the baptism of the Holy Spirit. The empowerment of the Holy Spirit for Christian living and service is a key element of Pentecostal theology.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – Disobedience that causes the sinful nature to affect humanity.
- Interpretation: Pentecostals emphasize that Adam’s fall brought sin into the world, and Christ’s righteousness can restore the lost relationship with God.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – This stresses individual sin and responsibility.
- Interpretation: Critics might point out that this verse focuses on personal accountability, which challenges the notion of inherited original sin.
9. Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jehovah’s Witnesses do not believe in original sin as a hereditary condition but view Adam’s sin as leading to death for all humans. They emphasize that Christ’s death paid the ransom for humanity, offering the opportunity for salvation through faith and obedience.
- For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
- Greek: ἁμαρτία (hamartia) – Refers to the sin introduced by Adam that led to death for all humanity.
- Interpretation: Jehovah’s Witnesses view this as teaching that while all humans are affected by Adam’s fall, ransom and obedience to Christ are essential for salvation.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – Emphasizes personal responsibility.
- Interpretation: Jehovah’s Witnesses argue that this passage shows that death comes from individual sin, not from inherited guilt from Adam.
10. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)
Mormonism does not teach original sin in the traditional Christian sense. They believe that Adam’s fall was a necessary step for humanity’s progression, and that humans are born innocent but with a natural tendency toward sin. Salvation comes through obedience and faith in Jesus Christ.
- For: Romans 5:12 (KJV) – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”
- Greek: ἁμαρτία (hamartia) – Refers to sin entering the world through Adam’s disobedience.
- Interpretation: Mormons see this passage as showing that Adam’s sin opened the way for all to choose between good and evil.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – Refers to personal sin.
- Interpretation: This verse stresses the importance of individual responsibility for sin, rejecting the idea of inherited guilt.
11. Seventh-day Adventist
Seventh-day Adventists hold to the doctrine of original sin but teach that humans retain the ability to choose God. They emphasize grace, justification, and sanctification through the atoning work of Christ.
- For: Romans 5:19 (KJV) – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.”
- Greek: παράπτωμα (paraptoma) – Refers to disobedience through Adam’s fall, which resulted in sin for all humanity.
- Interpretation: This verse supports the Adventist belief that humanity’s fall required grace for restoration, which is available through Christ.
- Against: Ezekiel 18:20 (KJV) – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…”
- Hebrew: עָוֹן (avon) – Personal sin is emphasized.
- Interpretation: Critics use this verse to argue against the idea of inherited guilt, advocating for individual accountability rather than the doctrine of original sin.
Conclusion
The doctrine of original sin and its implications on human nature and salvation is a central point of debate among various Christian denominations. While many traditions agree on the universal impact of Adam’s fall on humanity, the way that this affects salvation and the process of redemption varies. Some denominations, like Roman Catholics and Eastern Orthodox, focus on the effects of original sin in a way that involves both grace and sacraments, while Evangelicals, Baptists, and other Protestant denominations emphasize justification by faith alone. Pentecostals and Charismatics place a special emphasis on the baptism of the Holy Spirit as part of the salvation process. Denominations like Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons have differing views on original sin, arguing against the concept of inherited guilt, emphasizing individual responsibility or viewing the fall as a necessary step in humanity’s development.
Below are tables summarizing the theological perspectives on original sin and the scriptural basis for the views and counterarguments.
Table 1: Denominations and Their Views on Original Sin
| Denomination | View | Interpretation | Scripture Basis & Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Original sin transmitted to all humanity | Adam’s fall brought sin into the world, but baptism removes its guilt. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Sin is inherited, but not a legal stain | Adam’s fall resulted in humanity’s separation from God, but grace restores us. | Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world…” |
| Evangelical | Sinful nature inherited; salvation by faith alone | Sin passed from Adam; Christ’s obedience restores humanity. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
| Protestant (General) | Inherited sinful nature; salvation by grace through faith | Adam’s fall led to the spiritual death of all mankind. | Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world…” |
| Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent) | All born with a sinful nature; salvation by grace through faith | Adam’s sin affects all people, but Christ’s righteousness restores us. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
| Methodist (United Methodist, AME) | Original sin exists, but grace enables choice | Humanity’s sinful nature can be healed by grace through faith. | Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world…” |
| Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA) | Original sin transmitted; salvation by grace alone | Sin came through Adam, and Christ’s obedience restores righteousness. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
| Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI) | Inherited sinful nature; salvation through faith and Holy Spirit baptism | Christ’s atonement cleanses humanity, and the Holy Spirit empowers believers. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | No original sin; Adam’s sin brought death to all | Death is passed through Adam, but individuals are responsible for sin. | Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world…” |
| Mormonism (LDS) | Original sin not inherited; Adam’s fall necessary for humanity’s progression | Adam’s fall was part of God’s plan for human progression, not a curse. | Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world…” |
| Seventh-day Adventist | Original sin exists; salvation through Christ | Humanity was affected by Adam’s fall, and salvation comes through grace. | Romans 5:19 – “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners…” |
Table 2: Denominations and Their Arguments Against Original Sin
| Denomination | Argument Against Interpretation | Scripture Basis & Quote |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Sin is a personal matter, not inherited guilt | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Original sin is not an inherited legal condition | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Evangelical | Sin is a personal choice, not inherited | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Protestant (General) | Each person is responsible for their own sin | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent) | Original sin is a misinterpretation of personal responsibility | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Methodist (United Methodist, AME) | The fall doesn’t carry legal consequences for salvation | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA) | Sin is a result of personal action, not inherited | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI) | Each individual is responsible for their own sin | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | No inherited guilt from Adam’s sin | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Mormonism (LDS) | Adam’s fall was necessary for human progress, not a curse | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
| Seventh-day Adventist | Original sin doesn’t affect personal responsibility | Ezekiel 18:20 – “The soul that sinneth, it shall die…” |
Summary
The doctrine of original sin remains a central theological issue across Christian denominations, though various traditions interpret its impact on humanity and salvation differently. Some denominations, such as Roman Catholics, Eastern Orthodox, and most Protestant traditions, view original sin as something inherited through Adam’s fall, influencing all of humanity’s sinful nature. These denominations teach that salvation is through Christ’s atonement, which restores humanity’s relationship with God.
On the other hand, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Mormons reject the idea of inherited guilt, emphasizing personal accountability for sin. Seventh-day Adventists and Pentecostals focus on the necessity of grace, baptism, and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for overcoming the sinful nature.
The scriptural basis for original sin is primarily rooted in passages like Romans 5:12 and Romans 5:19, but many denominations argue against the inherited nature of sin, using passages like Ezekiel 18:20 to emphasize individual responsibility. Ultimately, how each denomination interprets these scriptures influences their understanding of salvation, grace, and human nature.