The doctrine of Total Depravity is so clearly taught in the word of God that it is a wonder more people do not see it. But the hearts of men are so blunted and blinded by this very depravity that they do not have a proper concept of the actual depths of their own native corruption nor of the "exceeding sinfulness of sin." Even Job desired to know how many his iniquities were, and prayed, "Make me to know my transgressions and my sin" (Job 13:23). Jeremiah said, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked," and then asked, "Who can know it?" Only God can truly, accurately, and fully see and know the unvarnished depths of man's wickedness by nature. 

    No one can go very far in understanding the Scriptures unless he has a reasonably clear concept of the native depravity of mankind. The apostle Paul, in writing to children of God who had been quickened into divine life, said, "We all (without exception) had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others" (Eph. 2:3). What a profound and enlightening statement this is! Oh, that all those who are presently in bondage to popular religion would let it sink down into their hearts and learn its invaluable lesson! 

    All of arminianism's claims in favor of man's innate abilities and virtues are a product of its ignorance of man's depravity. Christ said no man could come unto Him except they be drawn by the Father (See John 6:44), but arminianism says all men already possess all the abilities they need to come to Him at any time they may choose. These two positions are poles apart, but Christ was right and popular religion is wrong. May God enlighten His people who have been led astray by false doctrine.