Topical Encyclopedia The term "Spiritual Man" refers to an individual who is led by the Holy Spirit and exhibits characteristics that align with the teachings and virtues of the Christian faith. This concept is primarily derived from the writings of the Apostle Paul, particularly in his epistles to the early churches.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul contrasts the "spiritual man" with the "natural man" in 1 Corinthians 2:14-15: "The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual man judges all things, but he himself is not subject to anyone’s judgment." . Here, the spiritual man is depicted as one who possesses discernment and understanding that comes from the Holy Spirit, enabling him to comprehend divine truths that are inaccessible to the natural man. Characteristics of the Spiritual Man 1. Guided by the Holy Spirit: The spiritual man is led by the Holy Spirit in his thoughts, actions, and decisions. Romans 8:14 states, "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God." . This guidance results in a life that reflects the will and purposes of God. 2. Exhibits the Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. The spiritual man demonstrates these attributes as evidence of the Spirit's work in his life. 3. Mindset on Spiritual Things: The spiritual man sets his mind on things above, as instructed in Colossians 3:2: "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." . This focus on spiritual matters over worldly concerns is a hallmark of the spiritual life. 4. Discernment and Wisdom: As mentioned in 1 Corinthians 2:15, the spiritual man possesses the ability to judge all things with spiritual insight. This discernment is a result of the wisdom imparted by the Holy Spirit, allowing him to navigate life with a godly perspective. 5. Transformation and Renewal: The spiritual man undergoes a continual process of transformation and renewal. Romans 12:2 encourages believers to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." . This transformation is a work of the Spirit, conforming the believer to the image of Christ. Role in the Church and the World The spiritual man plays a vital role within the body of Christ and in the world. In the church, he serves as a source of encouragement, teaching, and leadership, using his spiritual gifts for the edification of others. Ephesians 4:11-12 highlights the purpose of spiritual gifts: "to equip the saints for works of ministry, to build up the body of Christ." . In the world, the spiritual man acts as a witness to the transformative power of the Gospel. His life serves as a testimony to the reality of God's kingdom, drawing others to Christ through his example and proclamation of the truth. Challenges and Growth While the spiritual man is led by the Spirit, he is not immune to challenges and struggles. The Apostle Paul acknowledges the ongoing battle between the flesh and the Spirit in Galatians 5:17: "For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh." . The spiritual man must continually rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and victory over sin. Growth in the spiritual life is marked by an increasing conformity to Christ and a deeper relationship with God. This growth is facilitated through prayer, study of Scripture, fellowship with other believers, and obedience to God's commands. In summary, the spiritual man is characterized by a life led by the Holy Spirit, marked by the fruit of the Spirit, and dedicated to the pursuit of God's will. His influence extends both within the church and into the world, as he seeks to glorify God in all things. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Spiritual ManSPIRITUAL MAN (ho pneumatikos): In distinction from the natural, the unrenewed man (1 Corinthians 2:15); man in whom the Holy Spirit dwells and rules. This divine indwelling insures mental illumination: "He that is spiritual discerneth (AVm) (or interpreteth) all things"; moral renewal: "a new creature" (2 Corinthians 5:17); "a new man" (Ephesians 4:24); spiritual enduement: "Ye shall receive power" (Acts 1:8). Greek 3131. manna -- manna ... Spelling: (man'-nah) Short Definition: manna Definition: (Hebrew), manna, the supernatural food eaten by the Israelites in the desert: of spiritual food. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3131.htm - 7k 4145. plousios -- wealthy 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness 5485. charis -- grace, kindness Library The Lax and Dangerous views of this Sect Respecting Good Works ... Carnal or Spiritual? Carnal Christians. Introduction An Extravagant Way of Accounting for the Communication of the ... The Whole Number of Spiritual Sheep; Man a Second Choir, after the ... Entire Sanctification as Taught by Paul. Man the Image of the Creator, and Christ the Head of the Man ... Faustus Explains the Manich??an Denial that Man was Made by God as ... Treatise on Man (Qq -102)Of Man who is Composed of a Spiritual and ... Resources Spiritual gifts survey - what are the different spiritual gifts the Bible mentions? | GotQuestions.orgDo we need to be aware of the spiritual battle that is taking place around us? | GotQuestions.org What evidence is there of a spiritual realm? | GotQuestions.org Spiritual: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |