The Total Man

THE TOTAL MAN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Thessalonians 5:23

“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:23

Supporting Texts: Luke 2:52; Romans 12:2; Proverbs 4:23; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 4:15-16

INTRODUCTION

God created man as a tripartite being: spirit, soul, and body; designed to function in harmony under His Lordship. When one aspect is neglected, imbalance sets in, leading to frustration, weakness, and unfulfilled potential. The purpose of redemption is not only to save our souls but also to sanctify every dimension of our lives.

A believer who focuses only on spiritual growth but neglects mental renewal, emotional healing, physical well-being, or healthy relationships, will remain incomplete. God desires wholeness, and this is why Paul prayed in 1 Thessalonians 5:23 that our whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless.

This study seeks to help us understand the five dimensions of the total man and how to pursue growth in all areas. God’s goal is to build us into balanced, mature believers who glorify Him in every sphere of life.

1. SPIRITUAL LIFE: ROOTED IN INTIMACY

The foundation of the total man is a vibrant spirit connected to God. Without intimacy, man drifts from purpose.

a) Worship in Spirit (John 4:24): God created us primarily for fellowship with Him.

b) Prayer and Intercession (Romans 8:26-27): Prayer fuels spiritual strength and breakthrough.

c) Word Meditation (Psalm 1:2): God’s Word aligns our spirit with His will.

d) Obedience (1 John 3:24): Obedience preserves intimacy with God.

Biblical Example: The early church devoted themselves to prayer, teaching, and fellowship, resulting in spiritual growth and divine increase (Acts 2:42-47).

2. MENTAL RENEWAL: TRANSFORMED THINKING

The mind shapes life’s direction. A renewed mind reflects God’s will.

a) Renewed Mind (Romans 12:2): Transformation begins with renewed thinking.

b) Guarding Inputs (Philippians 4:8): What you allow into your mind shapes your destiny.

c) Pulling Down Strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:5): Lies and negative thoughts must be replaced with truth.

d) Seeking Godly Counsel (Proverbs 11:14): Wisdom is sharpened through godly mentorship.

Biblical Example: Daniel resolved in his heart not to defile himself, and God rewarded him with wisdom and understanding (Daniel 1:8-17).

3. EMOTIONAL HEALTH: STEWARDING THE SOUL

Emotional maturity reflects spiritual growth and impacts relationships.

a) Guard Your Heart (Proverbs 4:23): Emotions must be monitored to avoid destruction.

b) Processing Pain (Psalm 13): God allows us to express grief through prayer.

c) Manifesting the Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): Godly emotions bring balance to life.

d) Healing Through Forgiveness (James 5:16): Releasing bitterness brings freedom.

Biblical Example: David often poured out his emotions before God in the Psalms and found renewal and strength (Psalm 51).

4. PHYSICAL WELL-BEING: YOUR BODY AS TEMPLE

Our body is God’s temple and must be cared for to glorify Him.

a) Honoring the Body (1 Corinthians 6:19-20): Our physical bodies belong to God.

b) Healthy Habits (Daniel 1:12-15): Good nutrition and rest glorify God.

c) Overcoming Addictions (Proverbs 25:28): Lack of control can destroy destiny.

d) Discipline (1 Corinthians 9:24-27): Discipline preserves strength and usefulness.

Biblical Example: Paul disciplined his body so he would not be disqualified from his divine assignment (1 Corinthians 9:27).

5. RELATIONAL MATURITY: FUNCTIONING IN COMMUNITY

Man is designed for fellowship and growth within community.

a) Humility and Service (Philippians 2:3-4): Relationships thrive on humility.

b) Bearing Burdens (Galatians 6:2): Community requires sacrifice.

c) Submitting to Mentors (Hebrews 13:17): Submission to spiritual authority fosters growth.

d) Exercising Gifts (Ephesians 4:15-16): Spiritual gifts are for building the body.

Biblical Example: Barnabas encouraged and supported Paul, helping to release his ministry fully (Acts 9:26-27).

CONCLUSION

God’s plan is for us to be total men and women, complete and balanced in spirit, soul, and body. Holistic growth enables us to represent Christ in our generation with excellence and power. Partial growth produces imbalance, but total growth produces wholeness.

Therefore, commit to pursuing spiritual intimacy, mental renewal, emotional health, physical discipline, and relational maturity. As you do so, you will reflect Christ’s fullness and live as the total man God designed.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, ignite a deeper hunger in my spirit for intimacy with You.

2. Lord, renew my mind daily and let Your truth prevail in me.

3. Holy Spirit, heal every wound in my soul and restore my emotions.

4. Father, give me wisdom to care for my body as Your temple.

5. Lord, break every addiction that hinders my physical well-being.

6. Jesus, help me walk in forgiveness and emotional stability.

7. Father, connect me with godly mentors and kingdom friends.

8. Holy Spirit, activate every gift in me for kingdom service.

9. Lord, make my life a testimony of balance and wholeness.

10. Father, preserve my spirit, soul, and body blameless until the coming of Christ.