Federal headship; total depravity; inherited guilt and corruption; radical fallenness
The PCA affirms the doctrine of original sin with its classical Reformed interpretation. Adam acted as the federal head of all humanity; his transgression brought sin, guilt, and death to all his posterity. Every human being inherits both the guilt and the corruption of Adam's sin.
Total depravity means that sin has affected every aspect of human nature. While humans retain rational faculties and moral agency, they lack the capacity or inclination to turn to God without regenerating grace. Every human heart is inclined toward evil; the human will is enslaved to sin and cannot choose good without divine intervention.
The Westminster Confession of Faith VI teaches that all mankind fell in Adam, becoming subject to death and all manner of misery. This inherited sinfulness underlies the necessity of Christ's substitutionary atonement and the Holy Spirit's efficacious regeneration.
Key Distinctions
- Doctrine type:
- Actual guilt, not merely consequence of sin
- Free will effect:
- Affects will, mind, and affections; no natural goodness
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith VI
- Westminster Shorter Catechism Q&A 17-18