Why Our Children Need the Doctrine of Total Depravity

I really resonated with this article by Jon Bloom: “Don’t Raise Good Kids.” I had a very similar experience growing up as a well-behaved, compliant child. It wasn't until late in my teen years that I was presented with the doctrine of my total depravity and my desperate need for a Savior. It was shocking for a "good" kid like me to finally learn and accept the truth after living in an environment that constantly affirmed my outward goodness. Here are some important words to ponder from his article:

Goodness is not behavior that ranks above the median line relative to other sinful people. Goodness is a fruit of faith (Galatians 5:22). When good kids’ behavior isn’t flowing from a deep trust in God, they’re being good for bad reasons. They’re just hellions in a compliant disguise. The good news is that Jesus came to save hellions! But it’s crucial that hellions know they’re hellions, because “those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. [Jesus] came not to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17). So parents, make sure you have a firm grip on the true doctrine of total depravity so that you don’t encourage evil goodness in your children. For apart from Jesus, nothing good dwells in them (Romans 7:18).

You can read the entire article here.   Photo Credit