My dear beloved PopeSleipnir poses some poignant questions about the cause of that force within oneself (or without) which seems to invariably drive us toward self-destruction over and against our better judgment.
He's right, of course, about the fact I'd point to that very sort of impulse within as an experiential aspect of original sin. Curious, though, his closing comment:
But I can understand the appeal of such concepts. It's so much easier to be a victim than a fool.
I find those words curious because implicit in the sentiment they express lies the conviction that as a preacher, I somehow hold the view and expend significant effort impressing upon other people that they are but victims of a force entirely beyond their control -- helpless and not accountable for the evil within and it's outward manifestations in word and deed. Oh, if only the Biblical view of original sin was one of mere victimhood, without accountability!
I understand, I suppose, where he and others obtain such a characterization of original sin and Christians as perpetual victims. A helpless and weeping sort of "the devil made me do it" sentiment is obvious enough among some groups of Christians. And I suppose it is easier than both being a fool or actually dealing with the Biblical concept of original sin.
Lutheran theology stands in quite a stark contrast with much of world Christianity precisely because of the doctrine of original sin.
Long story short is this: original sin may well explain something about how and why we feel, think and do such things as we do, but original sin is by no means an excuse. Though a corruption within introduced long ago from without, we are nevertheless forced to deal with what we are. Despite the fact our minds bristle and despise God all the more for holding us accountable for such an inherited corruption, accountable we are and we gotta deal with it -- no exceptions. Something within us is waay broken. Knowing that doesn't change it, or diminish it in the least -- nor does it lessen it's impact upon our day-to-day lives.
Victims? In a sense I suppose. But all the more are we fools because even as we are beholding the evil, destructive inclinations of the heart, we welcome them and give them free reign over us time and again. Foolish indeed are we as we note the presence of this inward corruption and yet determine we will simply put it out of mind and pretend it does not exist, we are really not ultimately accountable to anyone or anything for what we are and do, and surely will not be finally consumed and die from this inherited corruption.
I frankly find no comfort in the doctrine of original sin. It may well explain my situation or problem (and indeed, that of the entire human race), but hearing the diagnosis does not remove the disease -- or mean I'm no longer the one who has to live with it, deal with it and eventually die of it.
Consider further, for a moment, that original sin within is not only a threat to myself. The inclination is toward destruction, not mere self-destruction. Even our self-destructive behaviors often harm others deeply in body, mind and spirit.
Easier a victim or a fool? I dunno. From where I stand, things are tough all over. Try believing in a God who tells you you're as screwed up as you really are, and means it...
