Original Sin and the Fall of Adam and Eve
> The concept of original sin and the fall of Adam and Eve is a foundational element in Christian theology, impacting the understanding of human nature, sin, and the need for salvation. Mormons, or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), have a distinct perspective on the fall and its consequences, which differs from the traditional evangelical Christian view.
This article aims to provide a biblical response to a Mormon inquiry about original sin and the fall, exploring the evangelical Christian perspective and engaging with the LDS viewpoint.
The Evangelical Christian Perspective on Original Sin:
In evangelical Christianity, original sin refers to the fallen state of human nature inherited from the first humans, Adam and Eve, following their disobedience against God in the Garden of Eden. This concept is grounded in several scriptural passages:
- Genesis 3:1-19: The narrative of Adam and Eve’s disobedience and the subsequent curse describes the introduction of sin into the world. The consequences of the fall include spiritual death, a broken relationship with God, and the corruption of human nature.
- Romans 5:12: “Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.” The Apostle Paul links the entrance of sin and death into the world with Adam’s transgression, indicating that all humanity shares in the effects of the fall.
- Psalm 51:5: “Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me.” This verse expresses the idea of a sinful condition present from birth, suggesting an inherited aspect of sinfulness.
- Ephesians 2:1-3: Describes humanity as being “dead in trespasses and sins” and following “the prince of the power of the air,” indicating a natural state of rebellion against God due to sin.
The evangelical view holds that original sin has rendered humanity incapable of returning to God by its own efforts, underscoring the need for divine grace and redemption through Jesus Christ.
The LDS Perspective on the Fall:
The LDS Church views the fall of Adam and Eve differently. They see the fall as a necessary step in the progression of humanity, allowing for the possibility of moral agency, the knowledge of good and evil, and the opportunity for eternal growth. They believe that the fall brought about physical death but that individuals are accountable for their own sins, not for Adam’s transgression.
Engaging in Dialogue:
When discussing the concept of original sin with Mormon friends, Christians can emphasize the biblical narrative of the fall and its consequences for all humanity. It is important to clarify that, from an evangelical standpoint, original sin does not mean that individuals have no inherent guilt of their own, apart from Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12-14). However, they all inherit from his single act of disobedience a sinful nature that separates them from God. All have sinned because all are by nature sinners (Romans 3:23), and the consequence of sin is death (Romans 6:23).
Christians can also explain how the doctrine of original sin highlights the grace of God in salvation. Since humans are unable to save themselves due to their sinful condition, salvation must be an unmerited gift from God, accomplished through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Conclusion:
The evangelical Christian understanding of original sin and the fall of Adam and Eve is that it represents the tragic entry of sin into the human experience, resulting in spiritual death and a broken relationship with God. This view emphasizes the profound impact of sin on human nature and the subsequent need for redemption through Christ. In contrast, the LDS perspective sees the fall as a necessary and even positive step in human development. In conversations with Mormons, Christians can affirm the seriousness of sin as presented in Scripture while also celebrating the hope and grace found in Jesus Christ. By focusing on the biblical account and its theological implications, Christians can offer a thoughtful response to questions about original sin and engage in meaningful dialogue with those of differing beliefs.
