basically good? 08/02/20

Series: Modern Day Heresies

“basically good?”

Romans 1-3

The majority believe that people are intrinsically good.  

Scripture teaches only God is good, and man is totally depraved. 

Total depravity does NOT mean every person is as wicked as they can be or never does any good deed or does not have value.  

Total depravity refers to the reality of damage, not the appearance of damage.  

Total depravity means that our mind, will, emotions and body are helplessly corrupted by sin.   

the erosion of orthodox belief

We minimalize our sin.

We judge ourselves by our intentions.

We evaluate by comparing ourselves to others.  

Two destructive paths 

Some move toward atheism.          Romans 1

Pride grows, and man is elevated to divine status. 

The standard of morality becomes a moving target.

Eternal reality is ignored. 

Some move toward legalism.          Romans 2

Sin is highlighted in others and excused in ourselves.

People assume good works make God happy. 

ROMANS 3:9-18

when this doctrine is understood. . . 

·      We will live in humility. 

·      We won’t be nearly as disappointed in/judgmental to others.

·      We are in position to receive the gospel.

Today’s Takeaways

1.    The church must resist the world’s influence and teach the truth about the human condition. 

2.    Overvaluing our goodness can lead to destruction.

3.    If we acknowledge we are hopeless sinners, we have hope. 

4.    We should stand amazed at the grace extended to us through Jesus.