The Bible does teach that humans are born with a propensity to sin, often referred to as "original sin." Here's a breakdown of the relevant concepts and verses:
* Original Sin: The idea that humanity inherited a corrupted nature and a tendency towards sin as a result of Adam and Eve's disobedience in the Garden of Eden.
* Key Verses:
* Psalm 51:5: "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." (This verse suggests that sinfulness is present from conception.)
* Romans 5:12: "Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned." (This verse links Adam's sin to the sinfulness and mortality of all people.)
* Ephesians 2:3: "All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh, following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath." (This verse suggests that humans are naturally inclined towards sin and are deserving of God's wrath.)
* Total Depravity: Some theological traditions (particularly within Reformed theology) emphasize the concept of "total depravity," which asserts that sin affects every aspect of a person's being, including their mind, will, and emotions. This does not mean that people are incapable of doing good, but rather that even their good deeds are tainted by sin.
* Differing Interpretations: It's important to note that there are different interpretations of these verses and concepts. Some denominations place less emphasis on original sin and may emphasize the individual's choice to sin more than inherited sinfulness.
In summary, the Bible does suggest that humans are born with a tendency to sin, often attributed to the effects of original sin. However, the extent and implications of this inherited sinfulness are subject to varying theological interpretations.