Balancing Human Examples with Total Depravity and Sufficiency of Grace

The emphasis on human examples in Christian teaching and discipleship can indeed pose a risk of undermining the doctrine of total depravity and the sufficiency of God's grace, if not handled with care. Paul writes in Romans 8:28 that "all things work together for good" for those who love God, highlighting the sovereign hand of God in all aspects of life. This truth addresses the tendency to elevate human achievement or effort as the primary means of spiritual growth or success. The doctrine of total depravity, which asserts that humanity is completely corrupted by sin and unable to please God apart from His gracious intervention, must be upheld in order to maintain a proper perspective on the role of human examples in the Christian life.

The sufficiency of God's grace, which is the idea that God's unmerited favor is all that is needed for salvation and sanctification, must also be preserved in our emphasis on human examples. By acknowledging the inherent sinfulness of humanity and the complete dependence on God's grace for any good that is accomplished, we can use human examples in a way that points to the glory of God rather than the ability of humanity. This approach helps to prevent the misconception that human effort or achievement is the primary driver of spiritual growth or success.

In order to maintain a balanced approach, it is essential to continually point to the gospel and the finished work of Christ, which is the sole basis for our salvation and sanctification. By doing so, we can use human examples in a way that is grounded in the doctrine of total depravity and the sufficiency of God's grace, avoiding the danger of undermining these essential truths. This approach will help to promote a humble and gracious perspective, recognizing that any good that is accomplished is ultimately a result of God's sovereign grace and not human effort.