“For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.”
(Galatians 5:5 NKJV)
The theological concept of Total Depravity is something which I have always wrestled with. Understand that I applaud the virtues and seek to do them; and I will probably always hold in some way that “honor is the morality of superior men”. I imagine that some of you would like to challenge me from multiple angles on this, and that is great actually. Good humor aside, it has always been I who misunderstands what the great reformers were getting at.
I cannot save myself. You cannot save yourself. We neither by political action, obedience to the law, acts of courage, or grand generosity cannot save ourselves. Salvation is God’s work and His pleasure exclusively.
Beyond this, Jehovah holds the patent on all righteousness and goodness. When we see the beauty in the forest, experience the blessing of children, or do a good thing for another we are touching on His gracious character which He joyfully and abundantly demonstrates to all.
Yet, here is where I get me in trouble. Where am I when I think I, myself, posses the right? Where am I when I start thinking that I appreciate good things more than my neighbor? Where am I when I start thinking I disdain evil more than my neighbor? Where am I when I think I have discovered and put myself on an authentic path to the righteousness that only God can work in His heirs? Where am I if I start to think I am actually superior to my neighbor?
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