Man
Original Innocence and Moral Freedom
Confessional Text
Man was created innocent and upright40, and was endowed by his Creator with freedom of choice41.
Scriptural References
[40]
Psalm 8:3-6
What is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?
[41]
Genesis 2:15-17
Then the Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to tend and keep it
All scripture quotations are from the ESV (English Standard Version).
Historical & Theological Background
Historically, the church has affirmed that humanity was created in a state of original righteousness—Adam and Eve were morally innocent, holy, and in perfect fellowship with God. They possessed genuine freedom to obey or disobey God's command. This freedom was not coerced; Adam chose to sin willingly. Understanding humanity's original state helps us grasp both the severity of the Fall and God's original intention for human flourishing.
African Contextual Commentary
In African contexts influenced by fatalism or belief in predestined curses, this statement affirms that humans are moral agents responsible for their choices. We were not created sinful or cursed; sin entered through human rebellion, not divine design. This provides hope: if sin was not part of God's original creation, then redemption can truly restore us. It also establishes moral accountability—we cannot blame our sins on fate, ancestors, or evil spirits. God created us with dignity and freedom, and we bear responsibility for our moral choices.
Engage with This Statement
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