Renewing Your Mind The Sinfulness of Man
5 snips
Oct 20, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Michael Reeves, president of Union School of Theology, dives deep into the biblical perspective on sin. He contrasts optimistic cultural beliefs with Luther's view of sin's severity, illustrating how it runs deeper than mere choices. Reeves explains the concept of the 'bondage of the will,' emphasizing that our hearts are enslaved to sin without divine intervention. The conversation ultimately reveals that embracing our helplessness leads us to rely on God's grace for genuine transformation and renewal.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Sin Runs Deeper Than Outward Behavior
- Luther concluded that sin is a deep internal bondage, not merely bad actions.
- He argued we cannot become righteous by merely doing righteous deeds because our hearts remain corrupt.
Luther’s Monastic Struggle
- Michael Reeves recounts Luther's life as a monk striving in fasting, praying, and pilgriming.
- Luther found those efforts increased despair and resentment instead of genuine love for God.
Bondage Of The Will Explained
- Luther taught that our wills are 'bound' because our desires determine choices and we cannot choose what we want.
- Therefore people freely choose sin since their hearts naturally desire darkness and the flesh.
