How do we know the doctrine of sin in humans is true?

The scripture consistently addresses the nature of sin and the inherent wickedness in human hearts. Passages such as Psalm 51:5 declare that we are born in sin, and Romans 3:23 affirms that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. The Apostle John emphasizes this issue by contrasting Diotrephes’ arrogance and self-love with the humility expected of believers. The recognition of our sinfulness is crucial, as it drives us to understand our need for salvation through the grace of Christ, underscoring the Reformed doctrine of total depravity, which posits that man, in his natural state, is wholly incapable of doing good apart from the transforming work of Christ.