“Because the carnal mind is enmity against God… So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”—Romans 8:7–8, KJV

ABSTRACT

The article explores the biblical doctrine of human depravity within the framework of the Great Controversy, portraying the human heart as a spiritual battleground inherently corrupted by sin from birth, as evidenced by scriptures such as Romans 3:23, Jeremiah 17:9, and Psalm 51:5, which diagnose humanity’s default state as alienated from God, devoid of innate goodness, and marked by enmity against divine law (Romans 8:7-8). This condition manifests in universal spiritual blindness, rebellion, and the “works of the flesh” like adultery, idolatry, and strife (Galatians 5:19-21), tracing its origins to Adam’s fall (Romans 5:12) and requiring radical divine intervention through the Holy Spirit’s convicting role (John 16:8) to expose sin and awaken the conscience. Through God’s grace in Christ, offered universally (Titus 2:11; Ephesians 2:8), individuals can receive acquittal (Romans 8:1), mortify the old nature (Colossians 3:5), and embrace transformation by putting on the new man (Colossians 3:10), yielding the “fruit of the Spirit” such as love, joy, and peace (Galatians 5:22-23). The narrative culminates in an ongoing journey of renewal, urging believers to live out their redeemed identity through Christlike conduct (Colossians 3:12-17), daily surrendering to the Spirit for perseverance toward ultimate Christlikeness.

THE SPIRITUAL CRIME SCENE

The human heart is not neutral territory. It is a landscape etched with ancient conflicts, a place where cosmic forces contend. To observe humanity is often to witness the aftermath, the subtle and sometimes catastrophic evidence left behind at a spiritual crime scene. This scene isn’t marked by yellow tape or flashing lights, but by the quiet desperation in a searching soul, the inexplicable hostility towards divine things, the broken relationships, the addictions that bind, the pervasive sense of something fundamentally wrong. Contrary to optimistic philosophies that paint humanity as inherently good or merely misguided, the testimony of Scripture, echoed through prophetic insight, presents a starkly different picture. We are not born innocent bystanders eventually corrupted by external forces; the biblical diagnosis suggests we are born broken, arriving on the scene already implicated, estranged from our Creator until redeemed by a divine intervention. Our natural condition isn’t just flawed; it carries a fatal prognosis.

The biblical evidence for this condition is clear. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23, KJV). This universal declaration underscores the inherent sinfulness of all humanity, implicating every individual in the spiritual malady. Additionally, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9, KJV). This verse reveals the deceptive and corrupt nature of the human heart apart from divine intervention. As affirmed, “The natural heart is destitute of the principles of spiritual life; it must be transformed by the Holy Spirit before it can be in harmony with the will of God” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 503, 1905). Furthermore, “The carnal heart cannot be brought into subjection to the law of God until it is renewed by the Spirit” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 76, 1896). These statements reinforce the scriptural diagnosis that humanity’s default state requires supernatural transformation. This exploration delves into the evidence concerning this condition—the inherent depravity of mankind as documented by the Apostle Paul and understood within the framework of the Great Controversy, tracing the path from corruption to Christlikeness. What is the nature of this inherent depravity, and how does it manifest in human life?

THE DEFAULT SETTING: DEPRAVED BY NATURE

By birthright, unrenewed humanity exists in a state of spiritual orphanhood, fundamentally alienated from the divine Parent. The Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, leaves no room for ambiguity regarding this natural state. His assessment in Romans is piercing, almost clinical in its finality: “There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:11–12, KJV). This is not a description of particularly egregious sinners or specific degenerate cultures; it is a universal declaration about the inherent spiritual condition of mankind apart from divine grace. The language denotes totality: none understand spiritual truth correctly, none possess an innate desire to seek the true God, all have deviated from the divine path, all have become spiritually useless or corrupted, and none, based on their own nature, perform acts that meet God’s standard of absolute good. Humanity’s factory settings, its default mode, place it in a spiritual wasteland, barren of genuine desire for God.

This condition is not a superficial ailment but a deep-seated pathology. Pioneer Uriah Smith identified it with stark clarity: “The world’s first and fatal malady is sin… The only remedy is the removal of sin”. Sin is not merely a series of poor choices or unfortunate mistakes; it is a “fatal malady,” a terminal illness infecting the very core of human existence. The evidence is further supported by Scripture: “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned” (Romans 5:12, KJV). This verse traces the origin of sin to Adam, confirming its universal impact. Similarly, “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me” (Psalm 51:5, KJV) underscores the inherited nature of this condition. As stated, “The heart of man is by nature cold and dark and unloving; it must be changed before it can obey the law of God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 97, 1900). Additionally, “Without the transforming process which can come only through divine power, the sinful nature remains unchanged” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). These insights confirm that the solution cannot be cosmetic; it must be radical, addressing the root cause through divine intervention. This inherited brokenness explains why humanity, left to its own devices, does not naturally gravitate towards God or His truth. How, then, does this depravity manifest in humanity’s relationship with God?

THE VERDICT: ENMITY AGAINST HEAVEN

What is the precise legal standing, the spiritual position, of the natural human mind before the throne of God? The Apostle Paul, continuing his profound analysis in Romans, delivers a verdict that is both startling and foundational to understanding the need for salvation. He writes, “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God” (Romans 8:7–8, KJV). This passage encapsulates the core conflict. The term “carnal mind” refers to the mindset, the disposition, the entire way of thinking dominated by the fallen, unregenerate human nature—the “flesh.” This mindset is not merely indifferent or passively resistant to God; it is characterized by “enmity,” active hostility, a state of war against God Himself. The reason for this enmity is explicitly stated: the carnal mind “is not subject to the law of God.” It refuses to submit to God’s righteous standard.

The scriptural evidence is clear: “The imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth” (Genesis 8:21, KJV), highlighting the persistent inclination toward evil. Likewise, “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil” (Ecclesiastes 8:11, KJV), showing the heart’s natural rebellion. As stated, “The natural man cannot love God supremely until his heart is changed by divine grace” (Steps to Christ, p. 62, 1892). Furthermore, “The unrenewed heart is at enmity with God and will not submit to His law unless transformed” (The Great Controversy, p. 506, 1888). This inherent incompatibility means that attempts at righteousness from this source are flawed, tainted by underlying rebellion. This enmity often manifests subtly: a resistance to yielding to God’s will, prioritizing personal comfort, or dismissing spiritual disciplines. The declaration “neither indeed can be” demolishes any notion of self-salvation, underscoring humanity’s dependence on divine grace. What divine intervention bridges this gap of enmity?

THE DIVINE INTERVENTION: PROSECUTOR AND PHYSICIAN

Faced with humanity’s universal condition of spiritual estrangement and active enmity, Heaven did not respond with abandonment but with a plan of divine intervention. Central to this plan is the work of the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself outlined the Spirit’s crucial mission before His ascension. He promised His disciples, “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:8, KJV). The word translated “reprove” means to convict, to expose, to bring to light. The Holy Spirit acts as Heaven’s divine prosecutor, bringing the case against the world’s rebellion before the court of human conscience. This conviction operates on three fronts: of sin, because they believe not on Jesus; of righteousness, because Christ ascended to the Father; and of judgment, because Satan, the prince of this world, is judged.

Scripture further illustrates this role: “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you” (John 16:7, KJV), emphasizing the Spirit’s essential role post-ascension. Additionally, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18, KJV), connecting the Spirit’s work to gospel proclamation. As noted, “The Holy Spirit is Christ’s representative, sent to carry forward the work of redemption in human hearts” (The Desire of Ages, p. 805, 1898). Moreover, “Through the agency of the Holy Spirit, God works to awaken the conscience and bring conviction of sin” (Steps to Christ, p. 24, 1892). This convicting work is diagnostic, revealing the “fatal malady” of sin to awaken the soul to its need for healing in Christ. The Spirit’s universal work encourages outreach, knowing He is already active in hearts everywhere. How does this enmity manifest in tangible behaviors?

THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

When the carnal mind, characterized by enmity against God, holds sway over a life, its internal disposition inevitably produces external results. These results are not hidden; the Apostle Paul declares them “manifest”—plainly visible. He provides a grim catalog detailing the evidence: “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like…” (Galatians 5:19-21a, KJV). This list illustrates the pervasive corruption of sin, categorized as sexual immorality, false religion, interpersonal conflict, and intemperance, tainting every aspect of human existence—personal morality, spiritual inclination, social relationships, and self-control.

The Bible confirms this: “From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?” (James 4:1, KJV), linking conflict to sinful desires. Also, “The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts” (Psalm 10:4, KJV), showing the root of idolatry. As stated, “The works of the flesh are the natural result of a heart that has not been renewed by divine grace” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 315, 1900). Additionally, “Sinful indulgence defiles the body and soul, separating man from God” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 127, 1905). Paul warns that those living habitually in these works “shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:21b, KJV), emphasizing the eternal consequences. This catalog confirms the diagnosis of humanity’s fatal malady, highlighting the need for divine remedy. How can humanity escape this cycle of sin?

THE PATH TO ACQUITTAL & TRANSFORMATION

Given the bleak diagnosis—a natural state of depravity, enmity towards God, and the inevitable production of “works of the flesh”—is there a way out? Scripture provides a clear answer. Paul writes, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men” (Titus 2:11, KJV). Grace, God’s unmerited favor in Christ, is universally available, teaching us to deny ungodliness and live soberly, righteously, and godly. Christ invites, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, KJV). This call offers relief through relationship with Him.

Further, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8, KJV) emphasizes salvation’s divine origin. Also, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10, KJV) reflects the need for divine renewal. As stated, “Through the grace of Christ, the character is transformed, and the soul is brought into harmony with God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 126, 1900). Additionally, “The grace of God works in the heart to produce a new life, fitted for eternity” (Steps to Christ, p. 67, 1892). Responding in faith brings acquittal: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1, KJV). Empowered by the Spirit, believers “mortify the deeds of the body” (Romans 8:13, KJV), engaging in a divine-human partnership for transformation. What practical steps sustain this transformation?

MORTIFYING THE OLD, EMBRACING THE NEW

The path from acquittal to transformation requires active participation, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul grounds practical commands in the believer’s new identity: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above” (Colossians 3:1, KJV). Believers are to “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness” (Colossians 3:5, KJV), decisively rejecting the old nature, and “put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10, KJV).

Scripture supports this: “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof” (Romans 6:12, KJV), urging resistance to sin’s dominion. Also, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2, KJV), emphasizing mental renewal. As noted, “The old nature must be crucified with Christ, that the new man may live in its place” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). Furthermore, “Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the believer is enabled to put off the old man and put on the new” (Steps to Christ, p. 47, 1892). This is a continuous journey of growth, requiring dependence on God’s grace. How does this transformation manifest in daily life?

EVIDENCE OF NEW LIFE: THE FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT

The transformation by the Spirit yields tangible evidence: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22-23a, KJV). These qualities form a unified whole, reflecting Christ’s character, produced by the Spirit as believers “walk in the Spirit” (Galatians 5:16, KJV). They contrast starkly with the works of the flesh, fulfilling the law’s intent: “against such there is no law” (Galatians 5:23b, KJV).

Scripture affirms, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me” (John 15:4, KJV), stressing dependence on Christ. Also, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works” (Ephesians 2:10, KJV), linking transformation to good works. As stated, “The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of a life surrendered to God’s will” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 112, 1911). Additionally, “Through the Spirit’s work, the character is molded into the divine likeness” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 67, 1900). These virtues testify to the Spirit’s life-giving power in the heart. How should the redeemed live out this transformation?

LIVING THE VERDICT: CONDUCT BEFITTING THE REDEEMED

The transformation wrought by the Spirit permeates every aspect of life. Paul addresses believers as “the elect of God, holy and beloved” (Colossians 3:12a, KJV), calling them to “put on therefore… bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering” (Colossians 3:12b, KJV), and to forgive “even as Christ forgave you” (Colossians 3:13, KJV). Love is the “bond of perfectness” (Colossians 3:14, KJV), and “the peace of God” should “rule in your hearts” (Colossians 3:15, KJV). All is done “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17, KJV).

Scripture adds, “And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness” (Colossians 3:14, KJV), reinforcing love’s centrality. Also, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, KJV), urging visible godliness. As noted, “The life of the Christian should be a living epistle, read and known of all men” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 478, 1911). Additionally, “Love is the fulfilling of the law, and it is manifested in the daily life of the believer” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 112, 1896). These virtues authenticate the Gospel message through transformed conduct. What is the culmination of this journey?

THE ONGOING JOURNEY

The journey through these files has traced a path from diagnosis to deliverance. Humanity’s natural condition is spiritually dead, estranged, and at enmity with God (Romans 3:11-12; Romans 8:7-8), producing works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21). Yet, God commands repentance (Acts 17:30), enabled by the Holy Spirit’s conviction (John 16:8-11). Grace appears in Christ (Titus 2:11), offering rest (Matthew 11:28-30) and acquittal (Romans 8:1). Believers mortify the flesh (Romans 8:13), put on the new man (Colossians 3:10), and bear the Spirit’s fruit (Galatians 5:22-23), living all in Christ’s name (Colossians 3:17). The core message is clear: “And be renewed in the spirit of your mind” (Ephesians 4:23, KJV), summarizing the transformation from enmity to Christlikeness. The carnal mind cannot be reformed but must be reckoned dead, overcome daily by the Spirit. This journey requires daily surrender and reliance on the Spirit, ensuring perseverance and hope. May believers press forward, walking in the Spirit, until they fully reflect Christ’s image.

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