The Inheritance of Original Sin and Punishmen

The Main Idea

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III discusses the doctrine of the inheritance of original sin and responds to ideas that deny this doctrine and reject the principle of divine punishment, affirming the ثابت church teaching based on the Holy Bible and the sayings of the Fathers.

The Inheritance of Original Sin

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III confirms that humanity inherited the original sin from Adam and Eve, based on biblical texts such as: “In sin my mother conceived me.”
This inheritance does not mean a personal sin, but a fallen and corrupted state transmitted to all human nature.

Baptism and Its Role

He explains that infant baptism is clear evidence of the existence of original sin, as children are baptized for justification from it, even though they have not committed actual sins.
Baptism also puts to death the “old man” and raises a new person into spiritual life.

Sin and Punishment

His Holiness Pope Shenouda III emphasizes that sin has inevitable consequences, most importantly death, as stated: “The wages of sin is death.”
He rejects the idea that God does not punish, explaining that divine punishment is part of divine justice, not cruelty.

Types of Death

He explains that death resulting from sin is not only physical, but includes:

• Spiritual death (separation from God)
• Moral death (loss of the divine image)
• Eternal death (from which Christ saved us)

دفاع عن الكتاب المقدس

He rejects attempts to question the inspiration of the Holy Bible or consider it merely human expression, affirming that it is inspired by God.
He also criticizes excessive symbolic interpretation that removes the true meaning of the text.

The Danger of Denying Punishment

He warns that denying punishment leads to wrong ideas that may reach atheism, as it removes the sense of God’s justice.
He explains that God is merciful, but also just, rewarding the repentant and punishing the unrepentant.

Salvation in Christ

He confirms that the Lord Christ came to save الإنسان from the consequences of sin, especially eternal death, through redemption.
Salvation does not cancel punishment but transforms it into life for those who believe and repent.

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