The concept of total depravity is a theological debate that has long intrigued many. The question at the heart of this debate is whether depravity is intensive or extensive. If it’s intensive, it suggests that we’re depraved in every part in every way. However, I align with those advocating for the extensive depravity view. This perspective still acknowledges the presence of some good in man, yet it aligns with the biblical descriptions of how our will, emotions, and intellect are all affected, but not destroyed, by sin. This ‘infection’ is like a disease that’s passed on from generation to generation in the womb. The sinfulness of man begins in the womb. All children inherit Adam’s sin nature. It might take a while for it to become apparent, but they all have it. It’s in the genes. We’ve inherited it.
The biblical story of Jacob and Esau serves as a vivid illustration of the concept of total depravity. In Genesis 25:22-23, it is written, “The children struggled together within her.” Rebekah sought the Lord’s guidance, and He revealed to her that “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you shall be divided; the one shall be stronger than the other, the older shall serve the younger.” The strife in the womb foreshadowed the lifelong conflict between Jacob and his brother Esau. Neither of the two brothers exhibited commendable traits. Esau is often criticized for his indifference towards his birthright and his worldly ways, but in truth, they both displayed the characteristics of their depravity even in the womb. Yet, God chose Jacob over Esau. It’s a decision that may seem unfair, but it’s all part of God’s sovereign plan.
In Romans 9:13-16 we read about God’s love for Jacob. As God’s love for Noah, and God’s love for Abraham, it truly was not bestowed on him because he was someone special. When we consider Jacob’s life we see that, as Strassner says, “…Jacob was a lying son, a stealing brother, a cheating husband, a selfish father, and a mud-slinging son-in-law. Not much to be impressed with.” Jacob not only wrestled with Esau in and out of the womb, he wrestled with his father. He wrestled with his father in law. He even wrestled with God. But that’s what makes this passage so impressive. It says, “As it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated. What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means! For he says to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy.” Please note the last phrase. God truly dealt with Jacob in much the same way he deals with us. He wanted Jacob to know that God’s blessings in his life had nothing to do with his goodness. He didn’t deserve it. But God, in his loving mercy, gave it to him anyway. We get it the same way!