Affirms
Humanity inherited a fallen sin nature through Adam's transgression
Calvary Chapel affirms that Adam's fall introduced sin and spiritual death into the human race. All people are born with a sinful nature — a propensity toward sin and alienation from God — as a consequence of the original transgression. This is why all people are in need of the redemption offered in Christ.
While Calvary Chapel does not develop a particularly systematic doctrine of original sin, its expository teaching consistently affirms human fallenness, the universality of sin, and the resultant need for divine grace. This shapes its evangelistic emphasis: all people are lost and in need of the Savior.
Key Distinctions
- Doctrine type:
- inherited depravity — sinful tendencies and corruption inherited; guilt views vary
- Free will effect:
- will unable to turn to God without enabling grace
- Infant guilt:
- depends on tradition — many hold infants are safe; some affirm inherited guilt
Scripture References
Sources
- Calvary Chapel Statement of Faith