Theology Terms Explained: “Depravity”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
de·prav·i·ty | \ di-ˈpra-və-tē \
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: Moral corruption or wickedness.
FTG’s Expanded Explanation:
Depravity is the biblical doctrine that sin has affected every part of human nature—our minds, wills, emotions, and desires. Often called total depravity, this doctrine does not mean that people are as evil as they could possibly be, but that sin has corrupted the whole person, leaving humanity spiritually unable to please God or save itself.
Because of depravity, sinners do not naturally seek God, submit to His authority, or choose Him apart from divine grace. This doctrine explains why salvation must begin with God, not man. Depravity humbles human pride and magnifies the mercy of God, showing that grace is not merely helpful, but absolutely necessary.
The Biblical Connection
Romans 3:10–12 — as it is written, “There is none righteous, not even one; There is none who understands, There is none who seeks for God; All have turned aside, together they have become useless; There is none who does good, There is not even one.”
Jeremiah 17:9 — “The heart is more deceitful than all else And is desperately sick; Who can understand it?”
Ephesians 2:1–3 — “And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. Among them we too all formerly lived in the lusts of our flesh, indulging the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest.”
1 Corinthians 2:14 — “But a natural man does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised.”
From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture consistently testifies that humanity’s problem is not ignorance or lack of effort, but a sinful heart in need of divine rescue.
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“Total depravity doesn’t mean people are as bad as possible, but that sin affects every part of who we are.”
“This doctrine explains why salvation has to be a work of God from start to finish.”
“Depravity humbles us because it leaves no room for spiritual pride.”
“You can’t appreciate grace until you understand how deep our sin really goes.”
