1689 6.4

6.4. Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment thereof

From this original corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite to all good, and wholly inclined to all evil, do proceed all actual transgressions.

Proof texts

• Romans 8:7 — [7] For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot.
• Colossians 1:21 — [21] And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds,
• James 1:14, 15 — [14] But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. [15] Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.
• Matthew 15:19 — [19] For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.

For discussion

1. The Assembly cited Romans 8:7 in support of this answer. Read it in context — how does it bear on what is claimed here?
2. 4 passages are cited here. Which does the most work, and is anything claimed that the proofs do not obviously carry?
3. WSC Q13 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?
4. WLC Q21 treats the same ground. What does it add, and why might it put things differently?

Read alongside

WSC Q13 · WLC Q21 · WCF 6.1 · HC Q3 · BC 4.1 · BC 4.2 · SD 6.1