“Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned…”
– Romans 5:12 (NKJV)

How does the sin we inherited from Adam affect our daily walk with God? Romans 5:12 reveals the doctrine of original sin—the inherited sinful nature passed down from Adam, impacting every aspect of our being. As we’ve seen in this series, the Fall fractured our minds and spirits (Part 2), making us vulnerable to demonic influence (Part 3). Original sin is the root of this struggle, shaping our subconscious and spiritual battles.

Original sin affects even our deepest thoughts. The subconscious, where emotions and memories reside, often harbors sinful inclinations—like pride or fear—that the devil exploits. Ephesians 2:3 says we were “by nature children of wrath,” prone to sin from birth. This inherited nature amplifies our susceptibility to spiritual deception, as Satan plants confusion in our minds, distorting our understanding of God’s Word. But there’s hope! Romans 5:19 promises, “For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.” Christ’s atonement breaks the power of original sin, offering redemption.

Through Christ, we’re born again (John 3:3), and the Holy Spirit begins to sanctify our minds (Part 6). This renewal counters the effects of original sin, helping us resist the enemy’s lies. As we grow in understanding God’s Word, our obedience strengthens, freeing us from the confusion Satan uses to keep us in bondage. Original sin may be the root of our struggle, but Christ is the source of our victory.

Takeaway: Thank God for His redemption from original sin. Memorize Romans 5:19 this week, reflecting on how Christ’s obedience restores what Adam’s sin broke.

Discussion Question: How does understanding original sin help you appreciate Christ’s redemptive work in your life, especially in your thought patterns?