'Redeemed: Breaking the Chains of Being Born Sinners'

Born Sinners

The Bible teaches that all of humanity is born with a sinful nature. This means that we have selfish, sinful tendencies from the moment we are born. The concept of being born sinners raises important questions: Where does this sinful nature come from? Are we born sinners or do we choose to become sinners later in life?

Sinful Nature Inherited from Adam

According to the Bible, our sinful nature is inherited from Adam, the first man. The book of Romans tells us that sin entered the world through Adam, and as a result, death and condemnation came upon all people (Romans 5:12, 18). This means that every human being is affected by Adam's sin; there are no exceptions. We all share in the consequences of his disobedience.

Scripture also indicates that children have a sinful nature from birth. Proverbs 22:15 says, "Folly is bound up in the heart of a child." King David acknowledges his own sinful nature, stating, "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me" (Psalm 51:5). Another verse in Psalms says, "Even from birth the wicked go astray; from the womb they are wayward, spreading lies" (Psalm 58:3). These passages suggest that we are born with a natural inclination towards sin.

Total Depravity and Inability to Please God

The concept of being born sinners is closely tied to the idea of total depravity. This means that our sinful nature affects every part of us—our thoughts, desires, and actions. We are completely tainted by sin (Isaiah 53:6; Romans 7:14). Before we are saved, we are deserving of God's wrath purely because of our sinful nature (Ephesians 2:3).

Our sinful nature also renders us unable to do good in order to please God. Romans 8:8 tells us that those who are in the realm of the flesh, or our natural state, cannot please God. We were spiritually dead in our sins before Christ raised us to new life (Ephesians 2:1). We lack any inherent spiritual goodness and are incapable of saving ourselves.

The Natural Behavior of Children

One way to understand the concept of being born sinners is to observe the behavior of children. No one has to teach a child to lie or be selfish; these behaviors come naturally to them. Toddlers, for example, have a limited understanding of sharing and often believe that everything belongs to them. Sinful behavior is instinctive for children because they are born with a sinful nature.

Why This Matters

Understanding that we are born sinners helps us recognize our need for salvation. It highlights the fact that we cannot save ourselves through our own efforts or good deeds. Our sinful nature makes it impossible for us to please God on our own. Recognizing this truth humbles us and leads us to depend on God's grace and forgiveness.

Think About It

1. Reflect on your own sinful nature and how it affects your thoughts, desires, and actions. How does this understanding of being born sinners change your perspective on your own sinfulness?
2. Consider the implications of being born sinners for parenting and raising children. How does this knowledge shape your approach to teaching children about right and wrong?
3. Ponder the significance of Jesus' role in overcoming our sinful nature. How does His sacrifice provide hope and redemption for those born sinners?