We believe that man's creation in the image of God included ability to choose between right and wrong. Thus man was made morally responsible for his choices. But since the fall of Adam, man is unable in his own strength to do the right. This is due to original sin, which is not simply the following of Adam's example, but rather the corruption of the nature of every man, and is reproduced naturally in Adam's descendants. Because of it, man is very far gone from original righteousness, and of his own nature is continually inclined to evil. He cannot of himself even call upon God or exercise faith for salvation. But through Jesus Christ the prevenient grace of God makes possible what man in himself cannot do. It is bestowed freely upon all men, enabling all who will to turn and be saved.
Bible References: Gen. 6:5; 8:21; Deut. 30:19; Josh. 24:15; I Kings 20:40; Ps. 51:5; Isa. 64:6; Jer. 17:9; Mark 7:21-23; Luke 16:15; John 7:17; Rom. 3:10-12; 5:12-21; I Cor. 15:22; Eph. 2:1-3; I Tim. 2:5; Titus 3:5; Heb. 11:6; Rev. 22:17.
The Holy Trinity, God, the Father, Jesus Christ the Son of God, The Holy Spirit,The Bible, God's Word, God's Purpose for Us, Marriage and the Family, Man'sChoice, Salvation (Atonement), Justification and Regeneration, Good Works, Sin After Regeneration, Sanctification: Initial, Progressive, Entire, The Gifts of the Spirit, The Church, The Sacraments: Baptism and the Lord's Supper, The Second Coming, The Resurrection of the Dead, The Judgement of Mankind and Destiny.
