Are You a Good Person? Innate Goodness: Reality or Wishful Thinking?

What the Bible Says About Innate Goodness

The idea that people are inherently good is deeply rooted in today’s culture. It’s comforting, appealing—and completely at odds with Scripture. While we were indeed created in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), that image has been marred by sin. The truth? We are not naturally good—we are naturally in need of a savior.

Created in God’s Image… But Corrupted by Sin

Yes, we bear the imprint of our Creator. But the fall in Genesis 3 changed everything. Sin entered humanity, and with it came separation from God. Romans 3:23 lays it out clearly: “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Ephesians 2:3 even calls us “children of wrath” by nature.

To ignore this truth is to misunderstand the depth of God’s grace. Because if we’re already good, then what need do we have for a Savior?

Why Our “Goodness” Isn’t Enough

Our righteousness, according to Isaiah 64:6, is like filthy rags. No matter how kind, moral, or well-intentioned we may be, we cannot earn our way to God. The good news? We don’t have to. Romans 6:23 says that “the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Redemption in Christ Alone

God made a way to restore what sin broke. Through Jesus, God was “reconciling the world to Himself” (2 Corinthians 5:18–19). His sacrifice bridges the gap we could never cross on our own. This is the foundation of our faith: not our goodness, but His grace.

Embrace the Truth—and the Gift

It’s tempting to want to believe we’re “good enough.” But true freedom comes in admitting our need and receiving God’s mercy. It’s in surrendering that we’re made whole. Jesus doesn’t just improve us—He transforms us.

So, are you a good person? Maybe in the world’s eyes. But in God’s eyes, goodness without relationship with Jesus is never enough. Choose Christ. Embrace the gift of salvation. Let His goodness redefine yours.