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Key Doctrines

Total Depravity

The Reformed teaching that sin corrupts every part of a person (mind, will, affections) — not that people are as bad as possible, but that no part is left untouched.

Not To Be Confused With

“Total” means EXTENSIVE (the whole self is affected), not that everyone is maximally wicked or incapable of any civic good. It denies a neutral free will able to choose God unaided.

The “T” of the Reformed acronym TULIP. It holds that fallen humanity cannot, apart from grace, turn to God — the will itself is in bondage (Rom 8:7–8). Arminians agree the will is fallen but hold that prevenient grace restores the ability to respond; the debate is real and intramural.

Related Terms

Related Word Studies

Total Depravity — Definition | Theologos Media