I speak of it as a state of mind, to distinguish it from mere volitions, or mere executive acts of mind. It is that state of mind from which wicked words, and acts naturally proceed. Words and acts are means to an end. They proceed from a choice of an end, and have moral character only as they partake of the moral qualities of the choice that gives them existence. Moral depravity must consist in a settled ultimate choice, the choice of an end.
Human activity is rational and responsible.
Moral law requires of all moral agents sincere, perfect, universal devotion to God and to the interests of his kingdom. In other words, it requires perfect, universal, perpetual, unselfish benevolence. It sets up self above God. It practically makes self of supreme importance. In one word, it is selfishness.