Renewing Your Mind Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Dead in Sin, Made Alive in Christ
Host/Author: Ligonier Ministries
Release Date: June 22, 2025
Speaker: Dr. R.C. Sproul
Summary by: Nathan W. Bingham

Introduction

In the June 22, 2025 episode of "Renewing Your Mind", Dr. R.C. Sproul delves into the profound theological themes presented in Ephesians 2:1-10. Titled "Dead in Sin, Made Alive in Christ," this episode serves as the culmination of a short series exploring pivotal doctrines within Christianity. Dr. Sproul meticulously unpacks the Apostle Paul's description of believers' spiritual state, addressing the doctrines of original sin and the ordo salutis (order of salvation).

Exploring Ephesians 2:1-10

Ephesians 2:1-10 serves as the foundational scripture for this discussion. Dr. Sproul reads and interprets the passage, emphasizing its critical role in understanding human nature and salvation:

“But God, who is rich in mercy… by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves… we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works”
(Ephesians 2:4-10, paraphrased)

He highlights the transformation from being "dead in trespasses and sins" to being "made alive together with Christ", setting the stage for an in-depth theological exploration.

Doctrine of Original Sin

Historical Context and Controversies

Dr. Sproul begins by addressing the doctrine of original sin, a cornerstone of Christian theology affirmed by virtually all churches within the World Council of Churches. However, he notes significant variations in its interpretation across denominations.

"The essence of original sin is that we are left in a state of moral inability."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [07:45]

Pelagius vs. Augustine

The early church's debate between Pelagius and St. Augustine is central to understanding original sin's implications:

• Pelagius argued that Adam's sin affected only himself, maintaining that humans retained the inherent ability to achieve moral perfection without divine grace.

• Augustine countered, asserting that humanity's nature was fundamentally altered by Adam's fall, rendering individuals morally incapable of choosing righteousness without God's intervention.

"Our fallen sinful nature leaves every human being in such a state that no one has the ability in and of himself to incline himself to the righteousness required by God."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [09:30]

Semi Pelagianism and Its Rejection

A subsequent theological stance, Semi Pelagianism—introduced by John Cusanus—sought a middle ground, suggesting that while original sin impacted human nature, individuals retained some moral inclination towards God. However, this view was ultimately condemned as heretical, reinforcing Augustine's position.

"Both Luther and Calvin were thoroughly Augustinian in their understanding of original sin and moral inability."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [15:50]

The Ordo Salutis (Order of Salvation)

Temporal vs. Logical Order

Dr. Sproul distinguishes between the temporal order (sequence in time) and the logical order (dependency) within the ordo salutis:

"Faith's coming before justification is not an order in time. It's a logical sequence."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [16:40]

He explains that while faith precedes justification logically, the act of faith and subsequent justification occur simultaneously.

Justification by Faith Alone

Emphasizing sola fide (faith alone), Dr. Sproul underscores that justification is solely through faith, not by human works:

"By grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves. It is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [05:15]

Regeneration as Divine Initiative

A critical component of salvation is regeneration, portrayed as a monergistic (God-alone) act:

"When you're reborn, it's the activity that God wreaks in our souls and God alone."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [21:00]

Dr. Sproul recounts his personal conversion experience, likening it to Paul's transformative encounter on the road to Damascus, highlighting God's initiative in renewing the believer's heart.

Paul's View on Salvation

Dead in Sin

Paul's description of believers as "dead in trespasses and sins" emphasizes the complete spiritual incapacity apart from Christ:

"You were dead in sin, utterly helpless."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [10:05]

God's Role in Regeneration

Dr. Sproul stresses that it is solely "but God" who intervenes to resurrect believers from their fallen state:

"It is but God, rich in mercy, who has made us alive with Christ."
— Dr. R.C. Sproul [22:25]

This divine intervention transforms the believer's disposition, making Christ the primary pursuit post-regeneration.

Conclusion

Dr. R.C. Sproul's comprehensive analysis in this episode elucidates the depth of Paul's teachings in Ephesians regarding human depravity and divine salvation. By tracing historical theological debates and clarifying complex doctrines, Sproul provides listeners with a robust understanding of the necessity of God's grace in overcoming the inherent sinfulness of humanity. The episode reinforces the foundational belief that salvation is entirely a work of God, setting the stage for renewed minds and lives committed to Christ.

Notable Quotes

• Original Sin Defines Moral Inability:

  "The essence of original sin is that we are left in a state of moral inability."
  — Dr. R.C. Sproul [07:45]

• Faith and Justification:

  "Faith's coming before justification is not an order in time. It's a logical sequence."
  — Dr. R.C. Sproul [16:40]

• Regeneration as God's Work:

  "When you're reborn, it's the activity that God wreaks in our souls and God alone."
  — Dr. R.C. Sproul [21:00]

• Divine Intervention in Salvation:

  "It is but God, rich in mercy, who has made us alive with Christ."
  — Dr. R.C. Sproul [22:25]

Additional Resources

For those interested in further exploring the teachings discussed in this episode:

• YouTube: Access past episodes by searching for "Renewing Your Mind" on YouTube. Subscribe and turn on notifications to stay updated.

• Ephesians Commentary: Dr. Sproul’s in-depth commentary on Ephesians is available in hardcover. Support the ministry by donating here.

• Global Access: International listeners can obtain the ebook version by donating here.

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening journey through "Dead in Sin, Made Alive in Christ." Stay tuned for future episodes as Dr. Sproul continues to guide us in renewing our minds through Scriptural insights.