Discussion: How Depraved?

In preparation for this assignment, be sure to read Chapter 10, “Holiness and Human Sin” in the textbook, Holiness: A Biblical, Historical, and Systematic Theology.

If you are like many today, you may feel a little uncomfortable with the sense that our default human state at present is “totally depraved.” It is not the predominant message of American or Western culture. Many actually think that the Wesleyan tradition does not teach this idea since the concept is more closely associated with Calvinism (the T in TULIP).

However, as Dr. Bounds indicates in the module overview, the Wesleyan tradition holds to this doctrine just like the Reformed and Lutheran traditions. Rather, the difference in doctrine between these traditions is not in the starting point but in the extent and availability of salvation for all. The Wesleyan tradition holds, first, that salvation is truly available to everyone and, second, that the Holy Spirit wants to empower us and repair our fallen human nature. We basically agree on what that fallen human nature is.

There is some disagreement on whether total depravity means absolute depravity or thoroughgoing depravity. Absolute depravity would mean that there is no default goodness in humanity at all. Throughgoing depravity simply means that every aspect of our human existence is corrupted.

Engage this concept in an initial post of at least 300 words. Do you struggle with this concept? Do you need clarity on what it means? 

After making your initial post, please read through your classmates’ responses and make at least three follow-up comments on a different day than your original post. Your response should contribute meaningfully to the discussion. You might ask questions for further insight or clarification. You might provide additional examples or perspectives or challenge ideas respectfully. Each follow-up comment should be at least 100 words. This discussion is worth 40 points.