Affirms
All humans inherit fallen nature from Adam; born spiritually dead.
Plymouth Brethren affirm that all humans inherit a fallen sinful nature from Adam. This is often expressed as total depravity—that sin affects every aspect of human nature. Every person is born spiritually dead in sin and unable to save themselves through works. This doctrine undergirds the Brethren emphasis on necessity of grace through faith for salvation.
Key Distinctions
- Doctrine type:
- Augustinian — inherited guilt and corruption transmitted through generation
- Free will effect:
- will totally depraved in spiritual matters without grace
- Infant guilt:
- infants inherit guilt; baptism necessary to remove
Scripture References
Sources
- J.N. Darby, Synopsis of the Books of the Bible
- Brethren doctrinal tradition