How do we know that man is totally depraved?

Total depravity is a doctrine rooted in Scripture, asserting that every person is born in sin and is spiritually dead. Ephesians 2:1 states, 'And you were dead in the trespasses and sins.' This indicates that apart from the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, individuals cannot seek or understand God. Additionally, Romans 3:10-12 illustrates that 'none is righteous, no, not one; no one understands; no one seeks for God.' Total depravity means that while humans can perform outwardly moral actions, their nature is corrupted, rendering them unable to achieve true holiness or righteousness on their own. Only through God's grace can one be made alive and capable of faith.