Humanity fallen into sin; all inherit sinful nature from Adam
The SDB Statement of Belief affirms that humanity was created in God's image but fell into sin through the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. As a result, the entire human race inherited a fallen and sinful nature, separated from God and liable to judgment. Human beings are born with a propensity toward sin and cannot save themselves through their own efforts.
This doctrine of original sin is understood as the foundation for the necessity of salvation through Christ. All people have sinned and fall short of God's glory, requiring God's grace for redemption. The universality of human sin is affirmed, though SDB theology does not typically employ the term 'total depravity' in the strict Calvinist sense.
The SDB tradition emphasizes that while humans are born into sin and corruption, they are not born sinless. Personal sin and accountability are also real. The solution to both original sin and personal sin is the grace of God offered in Christ and received through faith.
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
- Seventh-day Baptist General Conference Statement of Belief