Affirms
All humans inherit fallen nature; need divine regeneration.
The Moravian Church affirms that all humans inherit a fallen, sinful nature from Adam. Human nature apart from grace is inclined toward sin and requires divine intervention through the Holy Spirit. This doctrine grounds the necessity of salvation and the centrality of grace in Moravian theology. Original sin is understood not as merely the consequence of Adam's choice but as a condition affecting all humanity requiring regeneration through faith in Christ.
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
- Moravian Church, Ground of the Unity
- Moravian doctrinal tradition