🔍 Were Humans Originally Good?
Genesis 1 tells us that when God created humanity, He declared it "very good" (Genesis 1:31).
Humanity began with dignity, purpose, and goodness. Yet the story did not remain untouched by brokenness.
The Christian worldview acknowledges that while humans were created good, the entrance of sin radically corrupted human nature, introducing a profound tension between human dignity and human depravity.
⚠️ The Nature of the Fall: Alienation from God
The Fall was not a simple mistake—it was an act of rebellion against God. Adam and Eve chose autonomy over trust, resulting in spiritual death and separation from God (Genesis 3).
As Paul writes, "Sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin" (Romans 5:12). Sin infected human nature at every level.
Augustine described sin as "disordered love"—loving self more than God. Humanity’s center shifted from God to self, distorting all relationships and desires.
💥 The Effects of Sin: Corruption in All Areas
Sin's influence is total. It affects our intellect, emotions, will, bodies, societies, and cultures. Every aspect of human life is touched by brokenness.
Though humans still bear God's image, that image is deeply marred. We long for goodness but often choose evil. We hunger for love but struggle with selfishness. We dream of justice but commit injustice.
John Owen warned, "Sin infiltrates every part of our being, and we cannot cure ourselves."
✨ Hope: Restoration through Redemption
Despite the gravity of sin, the Christian worldview offers hope. God did not abandon humanity. Through Jesus Christ, redemption and restoration are possible (John 3:16).
The cross and resurrection broke the power of sin and opened the way for humans to be reconciled with God. Redemption is not merely forgiveness; it is the restoration of the divine image in us.
Tim Keller captures it well: "We are more sinful and flawed than we ever dared believe, but more loved and accepted in Christ than we ever dared hope."
🌐 Recommended Resources
⚠️ A Balanced View of Humanity
The Christian view neither idolizes humanity nor despises it. Humans are deeply fallen yet infinitely valuable.
We must see ourselves and others with sober honesty about sin, and yet with unshakable hope in God's redemptive love.
