Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Imputed sin refers to the theological concept that the sin of Adam, the first man, is attributed to all of humanity. This doctrine is rooted in the belief that Adam's disobedience in the Garden of Eden brought sin and death into the world, affecting all his descendants. As a result, every person is born with a sinful nature and is subject to the consequences of sin, even before committing any personal acts of sin. Biblical Basis: The primary scriptural foundation for the doctrine of imputed sin is found in the writings of the Apostle Paul, particularly in the book of Romans. 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." This verse highlights the transmission of sin and death from Adam to all humanity. Further elaboration is provided in Romans 5:18-19 : "So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous." Here, Paul contrasts the imputation of Adam's sin with the imputation of Christ's righteousness, underscoring the redemptive work of Jesus as the second Adam. Theological Implications: The doctrine of imputed sin is integral to understanding the human condition and the necessity of salvation. It emphasizes the universality of sin and the inherent need for divine grace. According to this view, humanity is not only affected by personal sins but is also under the judgment of God due to the inherited sin from Adam. This concept is closely related to the doctrines of original sin and total depravity, which assert that human nature is fundamentally flawed and inclined toward sin. Imputed sin underscores the belief that salvation cannot be achieved through human effort but is solely the work of God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. Relation to Imputed Righteousness: The doctrine of imputed sin is often discussed in conjunction with the doctrine of imputed righteousness. Just as Adam's sin is imputed to all humanity, the righteousness of Christ is imputed to believers. This is articulated in 2 Corinthians 5:21 : "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." Through faith in Christ, believers are credited with His righteousness, enabling them to stand justified before God. Historical Context: The concept of imputed sin has been a subject of theological discussion and debate throughout church history. It was notably addressed by Augustine of Hippo, who articulated the doctrine of original sin, and later by the Reformers, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, who emphasized the total depravity of man and the necessity of grace. Practical Considerations: Understanding imputed sin has practical implications for Christian life and ministry. It fosters a sense of humility and dependence on God's grace, recognizing that human efforts are insufficient for salvation. It also encourages believers to share the message of redemption through Christ, who offers a remedy for the sin imputed to humanity through Adam. In summary, the doctrine of imputed sin is a foundational element of Christian theology, highlighting the pervasive impact of Adam's transgression and the profound need for the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Topical Bible Verses Romans 5:12Why, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed on all men, for that all have sinned: Topicalbible.org Romans 3:23 Romans 5:18 2 Corinthians 5:21 1 Peter 2:24 1 Corinthians 15:22 Romans 6:23 John 3:16 Romans 5:1-21 Isaiah 53:6 1 John 1:9 Library Whether the Infusion of Grace is Required for the Remission of ... Guiltless and Without Sin. Whether Despair is a Sin Whether Sin Can be in the Reason? Whether Despair is a Sin? As to the Words of St. ... Whether There Can be Sin in the Sensuality? The Law of Sin with Its Guilt in Unbaptized Infants. By Adam's Sin ... Whether the First Sin of Our First Parent is Contracted by his ... Its Nature Resources What is impartation? | GotQuestions.orgFederalism vs. seminalism'which view is correct? | GotQuestions.org What is original sin? | GotQuestions.org Imputed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |