Living according to the flesh is a concept that is addressed extensively in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament. The term "flesh" in this context generally refers to our sinful nature, the part of us that is inclined towards sin and rebellion against God. Understanding what the Bible says about living according to the flesh is crucial for Christians who seek to grow spiritually and live a life that is pleasing to God.
The Apostle Paul addresses this issue in several of his letters, most notably in the Book of Romans and the Book of Galatians. In Romans 8:5-8, Paul writes:
"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. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. 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. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God."
Here, Paul contrasts living according to the flesh with living according to the Spirit. To live according to the flesh is to set one's mind on earthly, sinful desires. This mindset leads to spiritual death, hostility towards God, and an inability to please Him. On the other hand, setting one's mind on the Spirit leads to life and peace. This dichotomy is essential for understanding the Christian life.
Paul further elaborates on the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21:
"Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 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."
These verses provide a clear list of behaviors and attitudes that characterize living according to the flesh. They are actions and mindsets that are contrary to God's will and are destructive to both individuals and communities. Engaging in these behaviors is a sign that one is living according to the flesh and not according to the Spirit.
In contrast, Paul describes the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23:
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."
The fruit of the Spirit represents the qualities and behaviors that result from living according to the Spirit. These are the characteristics that Christians should strive to develop in their lives. They are the evidence of spiritual growth and maturity.
Living according to the flesh is not just about individual actions; it is also about the underlying mindset and orientation of one's life. In Romans 12:1-2, Paul urges believers to:
"present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."
This passage highlights the importance of a transformed mind in the Christian life. Living according to the flesh is often the result of conforming to the patterns and values of this world. In contrast, living according to the Spirit involves a renewal of the mind, a transformation that aligns our thoughts and desires with God's will.
The struggle between the flesh and the Spirit is a common theme in the New Testament. In Galatians 5:16-17, Paul writes:
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. 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."
This internal conflict is a reality for every believer. The desires of the flesh and the desires of the Spirit are in opposition, and this tension can make it challenging to live a life that is fully pleasing to God. However, Paul assures us that walking by the Spirit is the key to overcoming the desires of the flesh.
The concept of living according to the flesh versus living according to the Spirit is also addressed by Jesus. In John 3:6, Jesus says:
"That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit."
Here, Jesus emphasizes the need for a spiritual rebirth. Being born of the flesh refers to our natural, sinful state, while being born of the Spirit refers to the new life that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. This new birth is essential for overcoming the power of the flesh and living a life that is pleasing to God.
The early church fathers also wrote extensively about the struggle between the flesh and the Spirit. Augustine of Hippo, in his work "Confessions," describes his own struggle with sinful desires and his journey towards spiritual transformation. Augustine's writings highlight the importance of God's grace in overcoming the power of the flesh and living a life that is aligned with the Spirit.
In practical terms, living according to the Spirit involves several key practices. First, it requires a commitment to regular prayer and communion with God. Prayer is a means of aligning our hearts and minds with God's will and seeking His guidance in our daily lives. Jesus Himself modeled a life of prayer, often withdrawing to solitary places to pray (Luke 5:16).
Second, living according to the Spirit involves a commitment to studying and meditating on God's Word. The Bible is the primary means by which God reveals His will to us, and regular study of Scripture is essential for spiritual growth. Psalm 119:105 says:
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."
God's Word provides the guidance and wisdom we need to navigate the complexities of life and to live in a way that is pleasing to Him.
Third, living according to the Spirit involves a commitment to community and fellowship with other believers. The Christian life is not meant to be lived in isolation. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to:
"consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Fellowship with other believers provides the support, accountability, and encouragement we need to live according to the Spirit.
Finally, living according to the Spirit involves a commitment to obedience and surrender to God's will. Jesus said in John 14:15:
"If you love me, you will keep my commandments."
Obedience to God's commandments is a tangible expression of our love for Him and our desire to live according to the Spirit.
In conclusion, living according to the flesh is characterized by a mindset and behaviors that are contrary to God's will. It leads to spiritual death and separation from God. In contrast, living according to the Spirit involves a transformed mind, a commitment to prayer, studying God's Word, fellowship with other believers, and obedience to God's commandments. This way of life leads to spiritual growth, maturity, and a deeper relationship with God. As Christians, we are called to walk by the Spirit and to resist the desires of the flesh, trusting in God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit to enable us to live a life that is pleasing to Him.
