"A Terrible Indictment of Human Nature"

The reality of sin shapes our society in ways that we often don't think about, explains John Stott in his classic Basic Christianity:

Much that we take for granted in a civilized society is based upon the assumption of human sin. Nearly all legislation has grown up because human beings cannot be trusted to settle their own disputes with justice and without self-interest. A promise is not enough; we need a contract. Doors are not enough; we have to lock and bolt them. The payment of fares is not enough; tickets have to be issued, inspected and collected. Law and order are not enough; we need the police to enforce them. All this is due to man's sin. We cannot trust each other. We need protection against one another. It is a terrible indictment of human nature.

On a more positive note, just try to imagine how radically different the New Heavens and New Earth will be. Think of all the energy and creativity that we'll be able to put toward God-glorifying activity!

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