Which Calvinist doctrine states that human nature is fundamentally depraved?

• A. Total depravity
• B. Predestination
• C. Justification by faith
• D. Common grace

Answer: (A)

Total depravity is the main concept tested. In Calvinist thought, it means human nature is profoundly corrupted by sin in every part—mind, will, and affections—so people cannot, by their own power, seek or choose God or salvation. This is the best answer because it directly describes the extent of sin’s impact on humanity, which is what the doctrine of total depravity claims.

Predestination concerns God’s sovereign choice about who will be saved, not how depraved humanity is. Justification by faith explains how a sinner is declared righteous—through faith, not by inherent depravity—so it isn’t about the depth of sin in the human will. Common grace refers to grace given to all people that restrains sin and enables some good in the world, rather than defining the fundamental depravity of human nature.