Inherently Good Vs. Sinful Nature

As I read through the Old Testament, specifically in 2nd Kings right now, I am struck by the human capacity for deceit, treachery, and double crossing.  It calls to mind one of the main differences that Christianity has with a lot of the rest of the world.

There are a lot of people that believe in the inherent good in people.  They reject the Christian belief that man has a sinful nature from birth. 

Well as I read about all of the double dealing and back stabbing, even among God's own people, it is hard to see it as anything but a sinful nature.

As I was thinking about this issue the image of my grandson came to mind and it further illustrates our innate tendency towards sin, even at an early age. 

Rico is going on 9 months and he is crawling and exploring his world.  As part of that explanation he is learning what no means.  He is also learning the phrase "that's not to play with Rico.". 

The funny thing is that when he is touching something that he isn't supposed to touch, sometimes he will watch you out of the corner of his eye as he slowly reaches out and touches it again.  You can tell that he knows darn well that he isn't supposed to but he is pushing the boundaries.   At that age it is kind of cute but what struck me today is that it illustrates, at least to me, that the nature to sin is indeed in us from birth!

So what is the answer?  Jesus!  We know that we are doomed to sin.  And when we sin there is a price to be paid.  We will either pay that price ourselves or we can have Jesus pay that price for us.  All we have to do is believe that Jesus was God's son, that Jesus was crucified to pay the price for our sins, that Jesus rose from the dead and know sits at the right hand of God. 

Have you asked Jesus to come into your life?  Why not do it right now?  "Dear Jesus…."