A world-renowned psychologist, Jordan Peterson, writes: “Human beings have a great capacity for wrongdoing. It’s an attribute that is unique in the world of life. We can and do make things worse, voluntarily, with full knowledge of what we are doing (as well as accidentally, and carelessly, and in a manner that is willfully blind).” Paul writes that human desires can be good, intentions can also be noble, but there is no ability or capacity to implement them. He concludes, “Sin indwells in me.” (Romans 7: 15-20)
Wrongdoing capacity: Humans could do wrong voluntarily, willfully, with full knowledge, accidentally, carelessly, blindly, and deliberately. When a Holy God is not known or rejected, humans descend into the depths of depravity. Arrogance, ruthlessness, and power-hungry people could do immense damage to communities and nations. Fascism, Marxism, Nazism, and several other godless ideologies became killing machines as millions were cruelly butchered.
Sinners: Paul clearly states that all humans are sinners and do not have the capacity to do good, pleasing, and acceptable deeds in God’s sight. What humans perceive as righteous deeds are indeed, like that of menstrual cloth in God’s sight. (Isaiah 64:6) Hence, no one is righteous by their own merits or rights. All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)
Redemptive power: Holy God has provided for forgiveness and strength to become overcomers. By default, human actions are sinful. Hence, there is a need for forgiveness, or face the wrath of God, the judgment of God. The Son of God died on the cross of Calvary, was buried, and rose again on the third day. The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ cleanses from all sins for those who repent and receive in faith this gift. (I John 1:7)
Power to overcome: Such believers could overcome Satan by the blood of the Lamb and their word of testimony. (Revelation 12:11) They are no longer powerless victims of Satan, but victors, conquerors, and overcomers in Christ Jesus.
Have I become an instrument of righteousness in the hands of the Holy God?