The dichotomy between the worldly and the spiritual is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, highlighting the contrast between living according to the flesh and living according to the Spirit. This distinction is foundational for understanding the Christian life and the call to holiness.

Worldly:

The term "worldly" refers to a life oriented towards the values, desires, and pursuits of the secular world, often characterized by a focus on materialism, sensuality, and self-indulgence. The Bible frequently warns against the dangers of worldliness, emphasizing that it is incompatible with a life devoted to God.

1. Love of the World: In 1 John 2:15-17, believers are admonished, "Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh, the desires of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not from the Father but from the world. The world is passing away, along with its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever."

2. Conformity to the World: Romans 12:2 instructs, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This verse underscores the need for a transformation that aligns with God's will rather than worldly patterns.

3. Friendship with the World: James 4:4 warns, "You adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore, whoever chooses to be a friend of the world renders himself an enemy of God." This stark warning highlights the spiritual adultery involved in prioritizing worldly relationships over a relationship with God.

Spiritual:

In contrast, the spiritual life is one that is led by the Holy Spirit, characterized by a focus on eternal values, godliness, and a deep relationship with God. The spiritual life is marked by the fruit of the Spirit and a commitment to living according to God's Word.

1. Life in the Spirit: Galatians 5:16-17 encourages believers, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want." This passage highlights the internal conflict between the flesh and the Spirit and the victory that comes through walking in the Spirit.

2. Mindset on the Spirit: Romans 8:5-6 states, "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. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace." This emphasizes the importance of a mindset focused on spiritual realities, leading to life and peace.

3. Spiritual Discernment: 1 Corinthians 2:14-15 explains, "The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. 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." This passage highlights the necessity of spiritual discernment, which is only possible through the Holy Spirit.

The Bible calls believers to reject worldliness and embrace a spiritual life, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to live in a manner that honors God and reflects His kingdom values.