Dr. Couch, total depravity tells us that man from the beginning is a sinner. Why do people deny this doctrine?
ANSWER: It is because they do not read their Bible. Man is not born "good" but sinful. Many do not believe this but our founding fathers did. That is why they divided our government into three parts in order to have checks and balances in the running of the nation. You cannot depend on any one man, or group of men. That is why there is a counter-weight with the three branches.
Here are some other verses besides the ones that are so clear about depravity: "The intent of man's heart is evil from his youth; and I will again never destroy every living thing, as I have done" (Gen. 8:21). "The sons of Judah have been doing only evil in My sight from their youth ..." (Jer. 32:30). And, "God is a righteous Judge, and a God who has indignation every day [against sin]" (Psa. 7:11).
In Genesis 8:21 the word for "youth" is "Na' Air" referring to the age that would be a teenager. It is at that age that a youth begins to be more "mature" in his sinful actions with those around him. Everyone goes deeper into sin at that point in their life.
Psalm 7 has the word "indignation." "Za'am" carries with it the idea of God passing sentence on sin. Or that the Lord curses the evil of mankind. Thus, He scolds the sinful ways of humanity. Men are sinners from the beginning and anyone who does not believe this is really very foolish!
Thanks for asking.
—Dr. Mal Couch (7/11)
