Total depravity teaches that all humans are affected by sin and incapable of saving themselves, highlighting the need for divine grace.
Total depravity is a critical doctrine in Reformed theology that asserts that every part of humanity is touched by sin, rendering us incapable of achieving righteousness on our own. It emphasizes that apart from God's intervening grace through the Holy Spirit, individuals cannot even desire to turn to Christ. This doctrine is crucial because it helps us understand our spiritual condition and the depth of our need for a Savior. Paul’s conversion experience in Acts 26 illustrates this point well; he was in utter darkness until the sovereign light of Christ transformed him. Recognizing our total depravity leads us to appreciate the full extent of God's grace and the necessity of regeneration by the Holy Spirit.
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