The Brethren in Christ affirm the doctrine of original sin: all humans are born into a state of sinfulness due to Adam's transgression. This is not merely imitation of Adam's sin but a real inheritance of sinful nature and guilt. Every person is born into the human condition affected by sin.

However, the Brethren in Christ do not teach that infants bear personal guilt for Adam's sin or that they are damned apart from grace. Instead, they affirm that God's grace is prevenient—preceding and enabling all to respond. This grace is sufficient to cover original sin and to enable individuals to respond to God's call.

This reflects the Wesleyan rather than Augustinian-Calvinist understanding of original sin. The emphasis is on the sinful condition and inclination to sin that all inherit, not on forensic guilt imputed to all. Through grace, individuals are enabled to overcome temptation and respond to salvation.