Question 18: Human Depravity

Paul describes sin's devastating effects. Those without Christ have darkened understanding and hardened hearts, separated from God's life. In several passages Paul’s teaching on human depravity reveals sin’s effect on humanity—minds are blinded (2 Corinthians 4:4), emotions are defiled (Romans 1:21) and wills are enslaved to sin (Romans 6:20). Without divine intervention, people are incapable of pleasing God. The consequence is spiritual death—estrangement from God in this life and the next. The estrangement isn't merely due to bad behavior but a fundamental brokenness, leaving humanity helpless to restore the relationship with the Creator.