What does it mean to be 'dead in sin'?

The concept of being 'dead in sin' is foundational in Reformed theology, highlighting humanity's total depravity. Just as Lazarus could do nothing to raise himself from the dead (John 11), we, too, cannot contribute to our own salvation because we are spiritually lifeless. This underscores the necessity of God’s sovereign grace in bringing us to faith; it is God's action alone that calls us from death to life, enabling us to respond to the Gospel. This biblical truth emphasizes that apart from divine intervention, we remain in our sin and unable to save ourselves.