Total Depravity and “Common Grace”—in the Light of the Confessions

The truth of total depravity has always been difficult to maintain. There are two reasons for this -- one spiritual, the other theological. The Scriptural teaching concerning total depravity is difficult to maintain spiritually because it is entirely contrary to our pride-filled nature. This doctrine makes us nothing, nothing at all in the sight of God. We rebel against that because we want desperately to retain some bits and pieces of our pride. The truth of total depravity has always been...