The Dual Reality of Human Existence: Flesh and Spirit

The Dual Reality of Human Existence: Flesh and Spirit

Isaac Megbolugbe
August 8, 2024

As humans, we exist in a state of duality, comprising a physical body and a spiritual essence. The former, a body of flesh and blood, is inherently weak, flawed, and susceptible to sin, having already been condemned. In contrast, the latter, our spirit, has the potential to be reborn and transformed through God’s redemption.

Our natural, unregenerate spirit is wicked, corrupted, and rebellious towards God, exemplifying cantankerous behavior. However, upon being reborn, God bestows upon us a new Spirit, as described in 2 Timothy 1:7, characterized by power, love, and self-discipline. This transformative gift enables us to live a life guided by God’s Truth, as revealed in the Holy Scriptures.

Jesus Christ emphasized the importance of worshiping God in truth and Spirit, as conveyed to the woman at the Well. This spiritual rebirth allows us to yield to God’s will, letting go of our old, indisciplined nature and embracing a new life in Christ Jesus.

In heaven, God promises a glorified body, freeing us from the limitations and weaknesses of our current flesh. Until then, we must acknowledge the gross indiscipline of our flesh and rely on the Holy Spirit to conduct our new life in Christ, empowering us to live according to God’s Truth and worship Him in spirit and truth.

The struggle between the flesh and the spirit is a constant reality for believers. Our flesh, with its inherent weaknesses and tendencies towards sin, often conflicts with the new Spirit we have received. This inner turmoil is evident in Romans 7:14-25, where Paul describes the struggle between his desire to do good and the sin that dwells within him.

However, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome the flesh and live a life that honors God. By yielding to the Spirit’s guidance and letting go of our old nature, we can experience the transformative power of God’s redemption.

In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul writes, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse emphasizes the radical change that occurs when we become reborn in Christ. Our old, fleshly nature is replaced by a new, spiritual reality, empowering us to live a life that reflects God’s Truth and glory.

As we journey through life, we must constantly remind ourselves of this dual reality and choose to walk in the Spirit, rather than the flesh. By doing so, we can experience the fullness of God’s redemption and look forward to the glorified body that awaits us in heaven.

In conclusion, the essence of our existence is a constant interplay between the flesh and the spirit. While our flesh is weak and flawed, our spirit, reborn in Christ, is powerful and self-disciplined. By yielding to the Holy Spirit and letting go of our old nature, we can live a life that honors God and reflects His Truth, ultimately receiving the glorified body promised to us in heaven.