The doctrine of total depravity is a theological belief that humanity, as a result of the Fall of Adam, is in a state of complete corruption and is utterly incapable of seeking God or performing good works without divine intervention. This doctrine is a central tenet in many Reformed and Calvinist traditions, where it is often associated with the concept of original sin. The view holds that every aspect of human nature—mind, will, emotions, and body—has been tainted by sin, and that individuals are spiritually dead apart from God’s grace.
Scriptures Supporting Total Depravity:
- Romans 3:10-12
(KJV) “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.”
Interpretation: This passage declares the total inability of mankind to seek God or do good by their own efforts. It emphasizes the universal depravity of all humanity, supporting the notion that people are spiritually dead without God’s intervention.
Theological View: This scripture is foundational to the doctrine of total depravity, showing humanity’s complete corruption and inability to seek God apart from divine grace. - Ephesians 2:1-3
(KJV) “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.”
Interpretation: Paul describes the natural state of humanity as being spiritually dead, following the course of sin and the influence of Satan. This supports the view that humanity is unable to act in a way that pleases God without divine intervention.
Theological View: Total depravity implies that people are born spiritually dead and need to be “quickened” or made alive through Christ’s grace. - Jeremiah 17:9
(KJV) “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?”
Interpretation: The human heart is portrayed as inherently wicked and deceitful, indicating the depth of human depravity. The verse suggests that humans are incapable of recognizing the full extent of their own sinfulness.
Theological View: This passage underscores the concept that even human desires and motives are corrupted, making humanity incapable of righteous living apart from God. - Psalm 51:5
(KJV) “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.”
Interpretation: King David acknowledges the reality of original sin, affirming that from birth, humanity is stained by sin. This is often used to support the idea of total depravity, where every person is born into sin.
Theological View: The doctrine of total depravity asserts that all humans inherit a sinful nature from Adam, making them morally incapable of seeking God without His grace. - 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.”
Interpretation: This passage highlights the universal impact of Adam’s sin, which has been passed down to all humanity. It supports the view that all humans inherit the consequences of Adam’s original sin.
Theological View: Total depravity is affirmed here, as all people are born with a sinful nature, subject to death and separation from God. - Isaiah 64:6
(KJV) “But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.”
Interpretation: This verse underscores the complete moral corruption of humanity, suggesting that even human attempts at righteousness are tainted by sin.
Theological View: The passage reinforces the concept of total depravity, where no human effort is sufficient to attain righteousness apart from God. - Titus 3:3
(KJV) “For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.”
Interpretation: This passage depicts the sinful state of humanity before salvation. It emphasizes that humanity is enslaved to sinful desires and behaviors, aligning with the doctrine of total depravity.
Theological View: It illustrates that human nature, in its fallen state, is dominated by sin, reinforcing the need for divine intervention for redemption. - Mark 7:21-23
(KJV) “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man.”
Interpretation: Jesus teaches that all sin originates from the human heart, affirming the total corruption of humanity.
Theological View: This passage supports the idea of total depravity, where sin is not merely external but originates from the corrupt human heart.
Scriptures Against Total Depravity:
- Romans 2:14-15
(KJV) “For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another.”
Interpretation: This passage suggests that even those without the written law have the ability to do what is morally right, indicating that humans retain some moral capability despite the fall.
Theological View: This verse challenges the doctrine of total depravity by asserting that humanity, even in its fallen state, can know and do good through the conscience. - 1 Corinthians 10:13
(KJV) “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.”
Interpretation: This scripture indicates that humans are not utterly enslaved to sin but still have the ability to resist temptation and choose the good.
Theological View: It suggests that humanity retains some measure of free will to respond to temptation and make moral choices, which contrasts with the idea of total depravity. - Genesis 4:7
(KJV) “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.”
Interpretation: God tells Cain that he has the ability to choose righteousness, implying that humans still possess a measure of moral agency.
Theological View: This challenges the idea of total depravity by asserting that humans are capable of choosing to do well. - Philippians 4:8
(KJV) “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
Interpretation: Paul exhorts believers to focus on virtuous and good things, suggesting that humans have the capacity for moral and virtuous thoughts.
Theological View: This implies that humanity retains the ability to pursue goodness and virtue, which contradicts the view of total depravity. - Romans 6:12-13
(KJV) “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.”
Interpretation: This passage implies that believers can resist sin and choose righteousness, suggesting that there is a capacity for moral action post-fall.
Theological View: It challenges the idea of total depravity by affirming that humans can choose to obey God and resist sin. - Matthew 7:7
(KJV) “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
Interpretation: Jesus calls people to seek after God, implying that they have the ability to respond positively to God’s invitation.
Theological View: This suggests that humans have the capacity to seek and respond to God, which contradicts total depravity. - Acts 17:30-31
(KJV) “And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.”
Interpretation: God commands all people to repent, which implies that all have the ability to do so.
Theological View: This passage challenges total depravity, as it implies that humanity has the ability to respond to God’s call for repentance. - John 1:9
(KJV) “That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.”
Interpretation: This verse suggests that Christ enlightens all men, implying that there is some spiritual awareness and capacity for understanding in all people.
Theological View: This can be understood as contradicting total depravity, suggesting that all humans are capable of responding to the light Christ gives.
The Doctrine of Total Depravity and Translation Debates
The doctrine of total depravity, which holds that humanity is spiritually dead and completely incapable of seeking God or doing good apart from divine grace, raises significant questions about how to interpret biblical texts. The debates around total depravity often hinge on translation issues in Hebrew, Greek, and English, as well as differing theological perspectives. This analysis will explore the translation debates across these languages, how they relate to total depravity, and the theological views that influence interpretation. We will examine relevant scriptures, how the translations may vary, and address potential problems in these translations.
1. Hebrew Translations and the Old Testament:
Key Hebrew Scriptures:
- Genesis 6:5
(KJV) “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.”
**Hebrew: “ra" (רַע)** The word "ra” translates as “evil” or “wicked,” and is often associated with moral corruption or depravity. The term implies that all human actions were corrupt to their core, aligning with the doctrine of total depravity.
Problem: While the word “ra`” clearly conveys moral corruption, some modern translations may soften the meaning, failing to fully express the total depravity of humanity’s state. The term “evil continually” in the KJV emphasizes the unbroken and pervasive nature of sin, which aligns with traditional interpretations of total depravity.
Theological Debate: Some argue that the Hebrew term only describes the situation before the Flood and is not intended to establish a general condition of humanity’s moral state, while others believe it lays the groundwork for the later doctrine of total depravity. - Psalm 51:5
(KJV) “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.”
Hebrew: “avon” (עָוֹן)
The word “avon” is often translated as “iniquity” or “wickedness,” suggesting a deep moral and spiritual corruption inherited from the fall. This verse is frequently cited in discussions of original sin and total depravity.
Problem: The translation of “iniquity” may not always convey the full sense of inherited moral corruption implied by the Hebrew, potentially undercutting arguments for total depravity.
Theological Debate: The Catholic Church, for example, may interpret this verse more in terms of human imperfection rather than absolute total depravity. Protestants, particularly those with Reformed views, see this verse as a powerful expression of the total depravity of humanity from birth.
2. Greek Translations and the New Testament:
Key Greek Scriptures:
- Romans 3:10-12
(KJV) “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.”
Greek: “adikēma” (ἀδίκημα), “sunistēmi” (συνίστημι), “agathos” (ἀγαθὸς)
The word “adikēma” refers to moral wrongs or injustice, and “sunistēmi” means to come together or form a group, which in this context, expresses humanity’s complete departure from righteousness. “Agathos” refers to the concept of goodness, which is absent in fallen humanity.
Problem: The Greek terms reinforce the idea of total depravity, but translators can choose less forceful renderings of these words, leading to a less clear understanding of total depravity. Some translations may dilute the emphasis on humanity’s total inability to seek or please God, which is a key component of total depravity.
Theological Debate: Reformed theologians strongly argue that these Greek words affirm total depravity, while others who reject this doctrine might argue that they describe specific individuals or groups (such as the Gentiles) rather than humanity as a whole. - Ephesians 2:1-3
(KJV) “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience…”
Greek: “nekros” (νεκρός), “paraptōma” (παράπτωμα), “hamartia” (ἁμαρτία)
“Nekros” means dead, referring to spiritual death. “Paraptōma” and “hamartia” both denote sins or trespasses, emphasizing the sinful state of humanity.
Problem: The translation of “dead in trespasses and sins” strongly supports total depravity, but some modern translations may soften this concept, offering the idea of “separated” from God, which is less absolute in terms of human incapacity to respond to God.
Theological Debate: Those who argue against total depravity often suggest that this “deadness” refers only to spiritual separation rather than a complete inability to seek God. In contrast, proponents of total depravity argue that “dead” in this context refers to total incapacity for good, which aligns with the doctrine.
3. English Translations:
The KJV remains one of the most significant translations in the English-speaking world and reflects the theological influence of the Reformation. However, more modern translations, such as the NIV and ESV, have been criticized for potentially diluting or downplaying the concept of total depravity by offering less forceful language.
Example:
- Romans 3:10-12 (KJV vs. NIV):
(KJV) “There is none righteous, no, not one…”
(NIV) “There is no one righteous, not even one…”
The difference between the KJV and NIV may seem subtle, but the phrasing of “no, not one” in the KJV emphasizes the total and absolute nature of human depravity, while the NIV’s slightly softer rendering may open the door to more interpretive flexibility.
Problem: Modern translations often seek to make the text more readable or accessible but, in doing so, may weaken the emphatic tone of certain verses that would traditionally support total depravity. This can be problematic for those seeking to uphold the traditional Reformed doctrine.
4. Theological Views and Translation Issues:
The theological perspectives that underlie different translations significantly influence how the doctrine of total depravity is understood:
- Reformed Theology (Calvinist): Reformed scholars strongly favor translations that emphasize the total and absolute nature of humanity’s corruption. They would argue that terms like “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1) and “there is none righteous” (Romans 3:10) must be understood as conveying total inability apart from divine intervention.
- Arminian Theology: Arminian scholars, on the other hand, tend to favor translations that allow for the possibility of free will or the ability to choose God despite the fallen state of humanity. For example, they may interpret terms like “dead” in Ephesians 2:1 as spiritual separation rather than absolute incapacity.
- Catholic and Orthodox Views: These traditions typically do not embrace the full doctrine of total depravity. They may interpret scripture as affirming the reality of human sin but emphasize that through baptism and divine grace, humanity retains the ability to seek God. They often prefer translations that allow for some human agency, rather than absolute total depravity.
5. How Accurate Are Greek Translations?
Greek translations are generally accurate in conveying the sense of total depravity, particularly in key texts like Romans 3:10-12 and Ephesians 2:1-3. However, the precision of translation can vary depending on the translator’s theological stance. Greek scholars who hold to a Reformed perspective tend to favor more definitive translations that emphasize the total incapacity of humanity to seek God apart from divine grace.
Some modern translations, particularly those influenced by a more neutral or Arminian theological perspective, might attempt to soften the language to reflect a less absolute condition of human depravity. This can lead to discrepancies in how the doctrine of total depravity is represented.
Summary of Analysis:
The debate over total depravity in the context of Hebrew, Greek, and English translations highlights the tension between different theological views. While traditional Reformed and Calvinist interpretations lean heavily on certain scriptures to support the doctrine of total depravity, other traditions such as Arminianism, Catholicism, and Orthodoxy may interpret these same texts differently. Issues arise in translation choices that can either emphasize or downplay the total inability of humanity to seek God without divine grace.
The KJV remains a strong reflection of the doctrine of total depravity, but newer translations can sometimes weaken this concept, depending on the theological biases of the translators. Greek translations, when accurately rendered, provide a strong basis for understanding total depravity, but the interpretation can vary significantly based on the theological stance of the translator.
Ultimately, the doctrine of total depravity is closely tied to the theological perspective from which it is approached, and different translations may reflect or obscure this core doctrine depending on how they handle key terms like “dead,” “wicked,” and “righteous.”
Denominational Views on Total Depravity
1. Roman Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic Church rejects the doctrine of total depravity. Catholics believe that while humanity is wounded by sin due to the Fall, individuals still retain free will and the ability to cooperate with God’s grace.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:10-12 – “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…”
Catholics interpret this verse as showing the general fallen state of humanity, but they do not see it as indicating the total inability to respond to God.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) 1 John 1:9 – “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”
Catholicism emphasizes the role of free will and grace in salvation, asserting that people can choose to confess sins and accept God’s forgiveness.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “anomia” (ἀνομία) in Romans 3:10-12 means “lawlessness,” pointing to humanity’s sinful nature but not to an inability to choose righteousness.
2. Eastern Orthodox Church
The Eastern Orthodox Church holds a view similar to Roman Catholicism, rejecting total depravity. They believe that while sin has wounded human nature, it does not completely destroy the ability to choose. The key is the necessity of divine grace to heal and guide the will.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
This verse emphasizes humanity’s universal sinfulness, but it does not teach total inability to choose good.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Revelation 22:17 – “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”
Orthodox theology underscores free will in responding to God’s grace, aligning with the offer of salvation being open to anyone who is willing to choose it.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “thelema” (θέλημα) in Revelation 22:17, meaning “will,” indicates that salvation is available to those who choose it.
3. Evangelical (General)
Evangelicals generally reject the concept of total depravity, believing that humanity is fallen but retains the ability to respond to God’s call. They emphasize the necessity of grace, but not total inability to choose salvation.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Ephesians 2:1 – “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.”
This verse is often cited to illustrate the spiritual deadness of humanity, but Evangelicals interpret it as a condition from which one can be awakened through God’s grace.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Evangelicals emphasize the “whosoever” in this verse, arguing that all people retain the ability to choose faith in Christ.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “nekrós” (νεκρός) in Ephesians 2:1, often translated as “dead,” is seen as spiritual deadness that is not permanent, implying the ability to respond to grace.
4. Protestant (General)
Protestants, in general, reject total depravity, though some branches (like Reformed) may teach it. Most view humanity as sinful but able to choose God’s salvation through faith.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 5:12 – “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.”
This verse is used to show humanity’s fallen nature, but Protestants do not see it as implying the total inability to choose God.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Matthew 11:28 – “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
Protestants see this as evidence that all people are invited to respond to Christ’s call, supporting free will.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “pas” (πᾶς) in Matthew 11:28 means “all,” indicating that the offer of salvation is available to anyone who chooses to come.
5. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)
Southern Baptists and other Baptist groups generally reject total depravity. They believe that while sin has marred human nature, people still have the ability to choose Christ through faith.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:10-12 – “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…”
Baptists use this verse to show human sinfulness but assert that it does not negate the ability to choose God.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) John 7:37 – “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.”
Baptists interpret this verse as demonstrating that Jesus calls anyone who desires salvation, showing that individuals are able to respond.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “dorea” (δώρημα), meaning “gift,” in John 7:37 emphasizes that the invitation to salvation is free, and anyone can accept it.
6. Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.)
Methodists reject the doctrine of total depravity. They teach that while sin has affected all humanity, free will is still intact, and individuals can respond to God’s grace through faith.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Methodists acknowledge this verse but do not interpret it as meaning that humans are totally unable to choose salvation.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) 2 Peter 3:9 – “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
Methodists interpret this verse as showing that God desires everyone to come to repentance, implying that everyone has the ability to choose salvation.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “sphodra” (σφόδρα) in 2 Peter 3:9 means “greatly,” showing that God’s desire for all to be saved is profound, which supports free will in salvation.
7. Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)
Lutherans hold that humanity is spiritually dead due to sin, but they do not fully embrace total depravity. They teach that while people cannot come to God without God’s grace, they still have the ability to choose to accept that grace.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Ephesians 2:1 – “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.”
Lutherans emphasize the spiritual death of humanity but interpret this as a condition that is overcome by God’s grace.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Acts 2:21 – “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
Lutherans see this verse as affirming that salvation is available to all who choose to call on God.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “epikaleo” (ἐπικαλέω), meaning “call upon,” suggests the active role of the individual in responding to God’s grace.
8. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)
Pentecostals generally reject total depravity. They teach that while sin has damaged human nature, individuals retain the ability to respond to God’s grace through faith and repentance.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:10-12 – “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…”
Pentecostals may cite this to recognize the fallen state of humanity, but they emphasize that grace enables a free response.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Luke 11:9 – “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”
Pentecostals interpret this as showing that salvation is available to anyone who seeks it, supporting human free will.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “aiteo” (αἰτέω), meaning “ask,” emphasizes the voluntary nature of seeking God.
9. Jehovah’s Witnesses
Jehovah’s Witnesses reject total depravity. They believe that humanity retains the ability to choose salvation through obedience to God’s will, and that Adam’s sin did not render people totally incapable of righteousness.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:10-12 – “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…”
Jehovah’s Witnesses acknowledge this verse but argue that it does not imply total inability to choose to follow God.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Deuteronomy 30:19 – “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.”
This verse supports their belief in humanity’s ability to choose life, indicating that people can still choose to follow God.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Hebrew word “bachar” (בָּחַר) in Deuteronomy 30:19, meaning “to choose,” emphasizes humanity’s ability to make moral decisions and choose life.
10. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)
Mormons reject total depravity. They believe that while humanity is affected by original sin, everyone retains the capacity to choose between good and evil.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:10-12 – “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…”
Mormons use this verse to acknowledge human sinfulness but reject the idea that humanity is totally unable to choose.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) 2 Nephi 2:25 – “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.”
Mormons interpret this scripture as evidence that humans have the capacity to choose good, rejecting the doctrine of total depravity.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “anomos” (ἄνομος), meaning “wicked,” does not imply complete inability, supporting the LDS view of agency.
11. Seventh-day Adventist
Seventh-day Adventists reject the doctrine of total depravity in the Reformed sense. They believe humanity is affected by sin but still retains the ability to choose salvation.
For Total Depravity:
(KJV) Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”
Adventists interpret this verse to show that all humans are fallen and need grace but do not believe it means total inability.
Against Total Depravity:
(KJV) Revelation 22:17 – “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”
Adventists interpret this verse as evidence that salvation is available to all who choose it.
Hebrew/Greek Insights: The Greek word “panta” (πάντα) in Revelation 22:17 means “all,” underscoring that salvation is offered to everyone who is willing to respond.
Summary
In summary, denominational views on total depravity vary widely. While traditional Reformed and Calvinist positions emphasize total depravity and the complete inability of humans to choose God, other denominations like Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Methodism, and many Evangelical groups interpret humanity’s fallenness in less extreme terms, often highlighting the role of grace or free will in responding to God. The Hebrew and Greek words used in key scriptures, such as “nekros” (dead) and “apollumi” (perish), are central to the debate over humanity’s spiritual condition and the extent to which grace is required for salvation.
Conclusion
The doctrine of total depravity, which asserts that human beings are utterly incapable of choosing righteousness due to the Fall, is debated extensively among various Christian denominations. While Reformed and some Calvinist traditions firmly support the view of total depravity, other traditions like Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Evangelicalism, and even Methodism emphasize the continuing role of human free will in salvation. Across denominations, scripture serves as the basis for differing interpretations, with some focusing on humanity’s fallen state while others highlight the possibility of human choice through God’s grace. Understanding the Greek and Hebrew terminology used in key passages helps to clarify these theological differences. Ultimately, the debate centers on whether humanity is entirely incapable of choosing to follow God or whether God’s grace enables all people to respond to His call.
Table 1: Denominations Supporting Total Depravity
| Denomination | View | Interpretation | Scripture Basis (KJV) | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is wounded by sin, but retains free will to choose salvation. | Romans 3:10-12 | “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…” |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is fallen, but free will remains intact to choose salvation. | Romans 3:23 | “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” |
| Evangelical | Rejects Total Depravity | Human beings are fallen but capable of responding to God’s call. | Romans 5:12 | “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.” |
| Protestant (General) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is sinful, but still capable of responding to God’s invitation. | John 3:16 | “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” |
| Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity has the ability to respond to God’s grace through faith. | Romans 3:10-12 | “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one…” |
| Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity retains the ability to respond to God’s grace through free will. | 2 Peter 3:9 | “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” |
| Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is spiritually dead but can be revived by grace to respond to God. | Ephesians 2:1 | “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins.” |
| Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is fallen but still has the ability to choose salvation. | Luke 11:9 | “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity retains the ability to respond to God’s will and choose salvation. | Deuteronomy 30:19 | “I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live.” |
| Mormonism (LDS) | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity has free agency to choose salvation despite the Fall. | 2 Nephi 2:25 | “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” |
| Seventh-day Adventist | Rejects Total Depravity | Humanity is affected by sin but retains the ability to respond to God. | Revelation 22:17 | “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” |
Table 2: Denominations Arguing Against Total Depravity
| Denomination | View | Argument Against Interpretation | Scripture Basis (KJV) | Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Church | Rejects Total Depravity | Believes free will exists alongside grace, so humanity can choose to accept or reject God. | 1 John 1:9 | “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” |
| Eastern Orthodox Church | Rejects Total Depravity | Argues that God’s grace and free will work together to lead to salvation. | Revelation 22:17 | “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” |
| Evangelical | Rejects Total Depravity | Emphasizes humanity’s ability to respond to God’s grace and free will. | John 7:37 | “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” |
| Protestant (General) | Rejects Total Depravity | Affirms the universality of the gospel call and human responsibility to choose. | Matthew 11:28 | “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” |
| Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Emphasizes the whosoever will aspect of salvation and human choice. | John 7:37 | “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” |
| Methodist (United Methodist, AME, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Believes humanity is capable of responding to God’s grace through free will. | Revelation 22:17 | “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” |
| Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Believes grace can revive spiritual death and restore human free will. | John 3:16 | “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” |
| Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.) | Rejects Total Depravity | Emphasizes individual choice in response to God’s grace. | Luke 11:9 | “And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” |
| Jehovah’s Witnesses | Rejects Total Depravity | Believes in the ability of humans to choose and respond to God’s will. | 2 Peter 3:9 | “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” |
| Mormonism (LDS) | Rejects Total Depravity | Teaches that agency allows humans to choose righteousness. | 2 Nephi 2:25 | “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.” |
| Seventh-day Adventist | Rejects Total Depravity | Teaches that free will exists in the face of God’s grace. | Revelation 22:17 | “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” |
Summary:
The doctrine of total depravity, particularly as taught by Reformed traditions, is not universally accepted across Christianity. Denominations like Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Evangelicalism, and many others teach that while humanity is fallen and in need of grace, individuals still retain free will and the ability to respond to God’s call. Through key scripture references such as John 3:16, Matthew 11:28, and Romans 3:10-12, these groups argue that salvation is available to all who choose to accept it.
Theological debates center on the interpretation of the terms used in key scriptures—such as nekrós (dead) and epikaleo (call upon)—to either highlight human inability or to emphasize grace and choice. By examining the different interpretations of these terms and the broader theological frameworks in various Christian traditions, we see a divergence between a view that emphasizes divine grace alone (as in Reformed theology) and one that underscores the role of human will in salvation (as in Catholic, Orthodox, and many Protestant traditions). Ultimately, these debates reflect broader understandings of human nature, grace, and the scope of salvation in Christian theology.