In the Bible, “carnally” refers to living according to the flesh, focusing on physical desires and sinful inclinations rather than spiritual matters. This term is often contrasted with living spiritually, as seen in Romans 8:5-6, where those who live according to the flesh do not have their minds set on the things of the Spirit.
Scripture
5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
6 For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
7 For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot.
8 Those who are in the flesh cannot please God.
Biblical Meaning of “Carnally”
The term “carnally” in the Bible emphasizes a life lived in accordance with earthly desires and fleshly inclinations, often leading to a separation from spiritual growth and divine priorities. In Romans 8:5-6, the apostle Paul delineates between two distinct ways of living: “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.” This dichotomy suggests that a carnally-minded individual is concerned primarily with temporary, worldly pleasures, which in turn leads to a mindset that results in death—spiritual death—while a life led by the Spirit yields peace and life.
Furthermore, “carnally” denotes a state of existence that prioritizes physical gratification over spiritual understanding and growth. In Galatians 5:19-21, Paul elaborates on the “works of the flesh,” which include behaviors such as immorality, impurity, and idolatry, warning that those who engage in such acts will not inherit the kingdom of God. This presents a broader theological implication: the call for believers to embrace a life led by the Spirit, characterized by love, joy, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), emphasizing that true fulfillment and purpose are found not in carnal pursuits but in spiritual alignment with God’s will. Ultimately, the biblical concept of living carnally serves as a reminder of the stark consequences of prioritizing the flesh over the Spirit and invites believers to pursue a transformative relationship with God that transcends mere earthly existence.
The biblical notion of living “carnally” frequently serves as a warning against the dangers of succumbing to a life dominated by fleshly desires. In contrast to the spiritual life, which emphasizes connection with God and alignment with divine principles, carnality is often characterized by behaviors that prioritize immediate satisfaction and self-indulgence. One might reflect on the teachings found in Colossians, where Paul urges believers to “set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.” This exhortation stresses a shift in focus; by redirecting one’s attention from carnal pursuits to heavenly aspirations, believers cultivate a deeper relationship with the divine that fosters spiritual growth and maturity.
Moreover, the concept of being carnally minded also sheds light on the broader theological discourse on human nature and the struggle between the spirit and the flesh. The New Testament illustrates this ongoing conflict, particularly in the writings of James, who reminds the faithful that friendship with the world constitutes enmity toward God. This perspective reinforces the idea that a carnal mindset leads to alienation from God and spiritual stagnation. By recognizing the implications of living carnally, believers are called to pursue a transformative journey marked by repentance and renewal. Embracing a spiritual life not only fosters divine connection but also empowers individuals to reflect the character of Christ, engaging in actions that bear witness to God’s love and holiness over mere human desire. Thus, the biblical understanding of carnality invites an ongoing examination of one’s priorities, ultimately urging faith-filled individuals toward a life that mirrors the heart of God.
The Dichotomy of Flesh and Spirit
In biblical context, the term “carnally” often refers to living according to the desires and impulses of the flesh, as opposed to the spiritual life guided by the Holy Spirit. This dichotomy highlights the struggle between physical desires and spiritual aspirations, emphasizing the need for believers to transcend mere physical existence and seek a deeper, more meaningful relationship with God. The concept serves as a reminder that a life focused solely on carnal pursuits can lead to spiritual emptiness and separation from divine purpose.
The Consequences of Carnal Living
Carnal living is frequently associated with negative outcomes in the biblical narrative. It is depicted as leading to sin, moral decay, and ultimately, spiritual death. The consequences of a carnal mindset can manifest in various forms, such as strife, division, and a lack of fulfillment. This understanding encourages believers to reflect on their choices and the potential repercussions of prioritizing earthly desires over spiritual growth, urging them to seek a life that aligns with God’s will.
The Call to Transformation
The biblical meaning of “carnally” also serves as a call to transformation and renewal. It invites individuals to move beyond a life dominated by carnal desires and to embrace a new identity in Christ. This transformation is often portrayed as a process of sanctification, where believers are encouraged to cultivate the fruits of the Spirit and embody a lifestyle that reflects their faith. The emphasis on transformation underscores the belief that, through divine grace, individuals can overcome carnal tendencies and live a life that honors God.
How to Balance Worldly Desires and Spiritual Growth
Balancing worldly desires and spiritual growth can feel like walking a tightrope, but it’s a journey that can deepen your faith and enrich your life. Start by recognizing that it’s natural to have desires; they are part of being human. However, the key is to align those desires with your spiritual values. Spend time in prayer and reflection, asking God to guide your heart and help you discern which desires are leading you closer to Him and which might be pulling you away. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can encourage you and hold you accountable. Remember, it’s not about completely rejecting the world but rather about engaging with it in a way that honors your faith. By prioritizing your relationship with God and seeking His will in your daily choices, you’ll find that your worldly desires can coexist with your spiritual growth, leading to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.
Bible References to Carnal Meaning:
1 Corinthians 3:1-4: 3 But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ.
2 I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready,
3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?
4 For when one says, “I follow Paul,” and another, “I follow Apollos,” are you not being merely human?
Galatians 5:16-21: But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
17 For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do.
18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law.
19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,
21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
James 4:1-4: 1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?
2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.
3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
4 You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.
1 John 2:15-17: 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.
17 And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.
Colossians 3:1-5: 1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.
4 When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
5 Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
Ephesians 2:1-3: 1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins
2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience—
3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Romans 13:11-14: 11 Besides this you know the time, that the hour has come for you to wake from sleep. For salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed.
12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
1 Peter 2:11-12: 11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.
12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.
2 Peter 2:9-10: 9 then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials, and to keep the unrighteous under punishment until the day of judgment,
10 and especially those who indulge in the lust of defiling passion and despise authority.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.