Definition and Nature
Human sinfulness refers to the inherent condition and tendency of human beings to act in ways that are contrary to the will and law of God. This concept is rooted in the biblical narrative and is central to understanding the human condition from a biblical perspective. Sin is described as any thought, word, or deed that falls short of God's perfect standard of holiness and righteousness.

Biblical Origin
The origin of human sinfulness is traced back to the account of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. In Genesis 3, the first humans disobeyed God's command by eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This act of disobedience, often referred to as "The Fall," introduced sin into the human race. As a result, all of humanity inherits a sinful nature. Romans 5:12 states, "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned."

The Universality of Sin
Scripture affirms the universality of sin, indicating that all humans are affected by it. Romans 3:23 declares, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." This verse underscores the pervasive nature of sin, affecting every individual without exception. The universality of sin is further emphasized in Ecclesiastes 7:20 : "Surely there is no righteous man on earth who does good and never sins."

Consequences of Sin
The consequences of human sinfulness are both immediate and eternal. Sin results in spiritual death and separation from God, as stated in Isaiah 59:2 : "But your iniquities have built barriers between you and your God, and your sins have hidden His face from you, so that He does not hear." The ultimate consequence of sin is eternal separation from God, as described in Romans 6:23 : "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

The Human Heart and Sin
The Bible describes the human heart as inherently sinful and deceitful. Jeremiah 17:9 states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" This verse highlights the deep-rooted nature of sin within the human heart, indicating that sin is not merely a matter of external actions but an internal condition.

The Role of the Law
The Law, as given in the Old Testament, serves to reveal human sinfulness. Romans 3:20 explains, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." The Law acts as a mirror, reflecting the sinful nature of humanity and the need for divine intervention.

Redemption from Sin
Despite the pervasive nature of sin, the Bible offers hope through redemption in Jesus Christ. Romans 5:8 proclaims, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus provides a way for humanity to be reconciled to God and freed from the bondage of sin.

The New Nature in Christ
Believers in Christ are given a new nature, enabling them to overcome sin. 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation is a work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live in accordance with God's will.

Ongoing Struggle with Sin
While believers are redeemed, they continue to struggle with sin. The Apostle Paul describes this struggle in Romans 7:18-19 : "For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. For I do not do the good I want to do. Instead, I keep on doing the evil I do not want to do." This ongoing battle highlights the need for continual reliance on God's grace and strength.

Final Victory over Sin
The Bible assures believers of a future victory over sin. Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This future hope encourages believers to persevere in their faith, looking forward to the day when sin will be no more.