Total depravity

High school (ages 12+)
Philosophy & Big Questions

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/total-depravity

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the theological classification?A Protestant doctrine derived from the concept of original sin
2. What is the historical development?Systematized during the Protestant Reformation, building on earlier theological concepts
3. What does "total depravity" mean?It means that because of the first sin by Adam and Eve, everyone is born with a nature that leans toward sin and needs God's help to choose good.
4. Why do some Christians say we can't choose good on our own?Because the doctrine says our will is so affected by sin that we can't pick good without God's grace.

Pervasive Depravity: An alternative term emphasizing the widespread and comprehensive nature of human corruption.
Original Sin: The theological concept that the sin of Adam and Eve has been inherited by all humanity.
Sovereignty of God: The theological belief that God has supreme authority and control over all things.
Volition: The power of using one's will; the act of making a conscious choice.