Calvin on Total Depravity

Posted inTotal Depravity
OF THE MIND But we are drunk with the false opinion of our own insight and are thus extremely reluctant to admit that it is utterly blind and stupid in divine matters. Hence, it will be more effective, I believe, to prove this fact by Scriptural testimonies than by reason. John very beautifully teaches it…

Total Depravity and the Image of God in Man

Posted inImage of God, Total Depravity
Some say that the image of God in man means that man is like God in being a rational and moral creature. Others say that it means that man is like God in having dominion over the earth. These things are both related to the image. Man's rationality and morality mean that he alone among…

Ephesians: Three Descriptions of Man’s Fallen Condition

Posted inEphesians
In the Apostle Paul’s letter to the saints and faithful in Ephesus there are three descriptions of the fallen condition of humanity. The first is in chapter 2:1–3 and describes the internal spiritual condition of those who are without Christ. The second, in 2:11–13, describes the external circumstances of the Gentiles prior to the revelation…