Original sin refers to the fallen condition inherited by humanity as a result of Adam and Eve's disobedience. Through the first sin, death, corruption and a rupture in humanity's communion with God entered the world (Romans 5:12). As descendants of Adam, all human beings are born into this fallen condition.
We do not inherit Adam's personal act of sin, but we do inherit its consequences. Human nature, though still created good and bearing the image of God, has been wounded. We are born subject to mortality, inclined toward selfishness and living in a world affected by sin and death.
Because of this fallen condition, every person eventually commits personal sins. Sin is not something that must be taught; it arises naturally from a human nature weakened by the Fall and inclined toward self-centeredness. Scripture testifies that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).
Before coming to Christ, humanity exists in a fallen condition inherited from Adam. As Scripture says, we were "by nature children of wrath" (Ephesians 2:3), not because we personally committed Adam's sin, but because we are born into a world marked by sin, death and separation from God.
The effects of this fallen condition can be seen throughout human life. No one needs to teach a child selfishness, impatience or dishonesty; these tendencies arise naturally from a human nature affected by the Fall. We experience disordered desires, moral weakness, suffering and death. Even when we know what is right, we often struggle to do it. Humanity remains capable of recognizing truth and doing certain natural goods, but it cannot heal itself or restore full communion with God through its own efforts.
For this reason, Jesus taught that we must be "born again" or "born from above" (John 3:3). Through God's grace, especially through faith and in baptism, we are united to Christ and receive new life. We are adopted into God's family, becoming His sons and daughters by grace. As Scripture declares, "To all who received Him, who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God" (John 1:12–13). What was wounded through Adam begins to be restored through Christ, and the believer enters a lifelong journey of transformation, sanctification and growth into the likeness of God.
Understanding original sin helps us understand both the depth of humanity's need and the greatness of God's salvation. The Fall explains why the world is broken and the Gospel reveals how God is restoring it through Jesus Christ.
Throughout Christian history, misunderstandings have arisen concerning original sin. Some have taught that every person inherits Adam's personal guilt and is condemned for Adam's individual act of disobedience. Others have gone to the opposite extreme, denying that Adam's fall had any lasting effect on humanity at all and claiming that people are born morally neutral. Neither view fully reflects the teaching of the early Church.
The Fathers generally taught that humanity inherits the consequences of Adam's sin - death, corruption, a wounded nature and an inclination toward sin - but that each person is ultimately responsible for his or her own sins. Human nature remains God's creation and still bears His image, yet it is fallen and in need of healing through the grace of Jesus Christ.
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