In the Bible, the term “natural man” refers to an individual who is not influenced by the Holy Spirit and is often characterized by a lack of spiritual understanding and discernment, as seen in 1 Corinthians 2:14. This individual is typically driven by fleshly desires and worldly wisdom, contrasting with those who are spiritually discerned and renewed.
Scripture
14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.
15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one.
16 “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Definition of Natural Man in Scripture
The concept of the “natural man” in the Bible, particularly highlighted in 1 Corinthians 2:14, serves as a poignant distinction between those who operate solely within their human nature and those who have been transformed through the Holy Spirit. Paul writes, “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” This verse underscores the notion that spiritual truths and divine revelations are beyond the comprehension of someone who has not been regenerated by the Spirit. The “natural man” is often depicted as being ensnared by sin and governed by his carnal desires, lacking the ability to grasp the deeper mysteries of faith.
The term also reveals a broader theological theme concerning humanity’s condition apart from divine intervention. Romans 8:7 further elaborates on this by stating, “The carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be.” Here, the “natural man” represents a state of alienation from God, characterized by rebellion and a disposition against spiritual matters. This condition emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in renewing one’s mind and heart, leading to a life that is spiritually oriented and aligned with God’s purposes. The contrast between the natural man and the spiritually renewed underscores the essential Christian belief in the necessity of divine grace to overcome human frailty and ignorance.
Beyond the discussions of the “natural man” in the epistles, the concept appears throughout Scripture, reflecting a consistent biblical narrative regarding the human condition in relation to God. In Genesis, for example, the understanding of humanity’s nature is established in the creation story, where humans are made in the image of God but subsequently fall into sin. This initial disobedience leads to a separation from God, resulting in a natural state that is marred by sin. This theme of humanity’s inherent fallen nature serves as a foundational backdrop for deeper theological explorations throughout the Bible, reinforcing the idea that without divine intervention, individuals remain entrenched in a worldly and natural existence.
Moreover, in the Gospels, Jesus often speaks to the heart of the matter concerning human nature, emphasizing a transformation that is necessary for entering the Kingdom of God. His dialogue with Nicodemus in John 3 highlights the necessity of being “born again,” indicating that the natural state of humanity, governed by fleshly desires, must undergo a profound change through spiritual rebirth. Jesus’ parables frequently illustrate the disparities between earthly living and the values of God’s Kingdom, further delineating the difference between those who live according to a natural understanding and those who seek a deeper, spiritual insight into God’s truth. Collectively, these insights create a rich tapestry of understanding about the “natural man,” encapsulating the urgency for spiritual regeneration through faith and the redemptive work of Christ.
Understanding the Natural Man’s Spiritual Condition
The term “natural man” in the Bible often refers to individuals who are primarily governed by their earthly desires and human reasoning, lacking spiritual discernment. This condition highlights the inherent limitations of human understanding when it comes to divine truths. The natural man operates within the confines of worldly wisdom, which can lead to a disconnect from the spiritual realities that are revealed through faith and divine revelation.
The Contrast Between Natural and Spiritual Existence
The concept of the natural man serves as a contrast to the spiritual man, who is guided by the Holy Spirit and possesses a deeper understanding of God’s will. This dichotomy emphasizes the transformative power of spiritual rebirth and the necessity of divine intervention for one to move from a natural state to a spiritual one. It underscores the belief that true wisdom and understanding come from a relationship with God, rather than from human intellect alone.
Implications for Moral and Ethical Living
The definition of the natural man also carries significant implications for moral and ethical living. Those identified as natural men may struggle with moral absolutes, often swayed by societal norms and personal desires. This perspective challenges believers to recognize the importance of spiritual growth and the pursuit of righteousness, as they seek to align their lives with God’s standards rather than the fluctuating values of the world around them.
How to Overcome Spiritual Blindness and Embrace Righteousness
Overcoming spiritual blindness is a journey that requires intentionality and a heart open to God’s guidance. Start by immersing yourself in Scripture, allowing the Word to illuminate your path and reveal areas where you may be missing the mark. Prayer is your lifeline—ask God to open your eyes to His truth and to soften your heart to His will. Surround yourself with a community of believers who can offer support, accountability, and wisdom; sometimes, it takes the perspective of others to help us see what we cannot. Remember, embracing righteousness is not about perfection but about progress—acknowledge your shortcomings, seek forgiveness, and strive to reflect Christ’s love in your daily actions. As you cultivate a deeper relationship with God, you’ll find that the scales of blindness begin to fall away, revealing a clearer vision of His purpose for your life.
Bible References to the Natural Man:
Romans 8:5-8: 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.
Ephesians 4:17-19: 17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds.
18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
1 Corinthians 3:1-3: 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?
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.
Colossians 2:18-23: 18 Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind,
19 and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God.
20 If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations—
21 “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch”
22 (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings?
23 These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.
James 3:13-16: 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth.
15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
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.
Romans 1:18-23: 18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth.
19 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them.
20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.
21 For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
22 Claiming to be wise, they became fools,
23 and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things.
1 Peter 4:1-4: 1 Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
2 so as to live for the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for human passions but for the will of God.
3 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.
4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you;
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.