The Limitations Of The Natural Person And Essential Presence Of The Spirit Of Christ. Series

The Bible teaches that there are two types of people: the natural person and the spiritual person. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, the apostle Paul writes, "The natural person does not accept the things of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned." This verse highlights the limitations of the natural person in understanding spiritual truths.

The Natural Person

The natural person refers to someone who is not born again, someone who has not received Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This person operates solely on human wisdom, reason, and understanding, without the influence of the Holy Spirit. The natural person is limited in their ability to comprehend spiritual truths because they are not spiritually alive.

Bible Verses:

- 1 Corinthians 2:14"The natural person does not accept the things of God, for they are foolishness to them, and they cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned."

- John 6:63 "The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life."

- Romans 8:7-8 "The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God."

The Spiritual Person

On the other hand, the spiritual person is someone who has been born again, someone who has received Jesus Christ and has the Holy Spirit dwelling within them. This person is able to understand spiritual truths because they are spiritually alive and have the Holy Spirit to guide them.

Bible Verses:

- 1 Corinthians 2:15-16 "The spiritual person judges all things, but is themselves not subject to judgment by anyone. 'For who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?' But we have the mind of Christ."

- John 14:26 "But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance everything I have said to you."

- 1 John 2:20 "You have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth."

In conclusion, the natural person is limited in their ability to understand spiritual truths because they are not spiritually alive. However, the spiritual person, who has been born again and has the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, is able to comprehend spiritual truths. Let us seek to deepen our spiritual lives and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us in our understanding of God's Word.

The Essential Presence of the Spirit of Christ

In Romans 8:9, the apostle Paul writes, "If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ." This verse highlights the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. Here we'll explore the significance of this statement and examine the Bible verses that support it.

The Spirit of Christ

The Spirit of Christ refers to the Holy Spirit, who is the third person of the Trinity. He is the one who convicts us of sin, regenerates our hearts, and empowers us to live a life pleasing to God. The Spirit of Christ is not just a optional extra, but an essential component of our faith.

Bible Verses:

- Romans 8:9: "You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ."

- 1 Corinthians 12:3: "Therefore I want you to know that no one who is speaking by the Spirit of God says, 'Jesus be cursed,' and no one can say, 'Jesus is Lord,' except by the Holy Spirit."

- Galatians 4:6: "Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, 'Abba, Father'."

The Evidence of the Spirit's Presence

So, how do we know if we have the Spirit of Christ? The Bible provides several evidences of the Spirit's presence in our lives.

- Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

- Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4-11)

- Conviction of sin (John 16:8-11)

- Assurance of salvation (Romans 8:16)

- Empowerment for service (Acts 1:8)

In conclusion, the presence of the Spirit of Christ is essential for our salvation and our walk with God. Without the Spirit, we do not belong to Christ. Let us seek to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit, and may we be empowered by His presence in our lives.