The New Apostolic Church affirms that humanity fell into sin through Adam's disobedience and that this fall has affected all of his descendants. All people are born in a sinful condition and require redemption through Christ and the sacraments of the church. This doctrine of original sin is foundational to the NAC's understanding of why the sacraments are necessary for salvation.

The church teaches that original sin is transmitted to all humans, and all are born with a sinful nature prone to actual transgression. This universal condition of sinfulness makes the gracious provision of God in Christ and in the sacraments absolutely necessary. Without participation in the church's sacramental life, no one can be saved.

Baptism is the first sacrament that addresses the problem of original sin, washing away the stain of sin and initiating a person into the church. However, the full restoration from original sin is completed through Holy Sealing, in which the Holy Spirit is given and sanctification is advanced. This coordinated sacramental approach to dealing with original sin and its effects demonstrates the NAC's belief in the essential role of the church and its ordained ministry.