Introduction
The world is full of different kinds of people, each with unique beliefs, perspectives, and spiritual inclinations. However, when viewed through the lens of the Bible, humanity is classified into three broad categories: the natural man, the spiritual man, and the carnal man.
But what do these classifications mean? Are people born into one of these groups, or is it something they grow into over time? Can a person change from being a natural man to a spiritual man or vice versa? And what about the carnal man—is he truly a believer, or is he just stuck between two worlds?
In this in-depth exploration, we will break down these three types of people, explain their characteristics, and provide biblical insights on where each one stands before God. By the end of this article, you will have a clearer understanding of where you stand and what steps you might need to take on your spiritual journey.
The Natural Man: Separated from God
Who is a Natural Man?
The natural man is someone who has not been spiritually reborn. In simple terms, this is a person who has not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The Bible states in 1 Corinthians 2:14:
“But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
A natural person operates purely on human reasoning, emotions, and instincts. They rely on what they can see, touch, and understand with their natural mind. Since they have not experienced spiritual rebirth, they are disconnected from God’s divine presence.
Characteristics of a Natural Man
- Lacks Spiritual Discernment – The natural man finds it difficult to understand spiritual matters. To them, things like faith, salvation, and eternal life seem illogical.
- Lives by Human Wisdom – Instead of trusting in God, the natural man relies on worldly knowledge and personal experience.
- Unaware of Spiritual Realities – Because they are spiritually blind, they do not recognize the importance of salvation, the work of the Holy Spirit, or God’s plans for their life.
- Governed by the Flesh – Their thoughts, actions, and desires are controlled by their human nature, not by the Spirit of God.
- Distant from God – They do not have a personal relationship with God, nor do they seek His guidance in their life.
Can a Natural Man Change?
Yes! The good news is that no one has to remain a natural person forever. Through faith in Jesus Christ, a person can become spiritually reborn. This transformation is what the Bible calls being “born again.”
In John 3:3, Jesus told Nicodemus:
“Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”
Accepting Jesus Christ into one’s life brings about a transformation that shifts a person from the natural state to a spiritual state.
The Spiritual Man: Led by the Holy Spirit
Who is a Spiritual Man?
A spiritual person is someone who has been born again through faith in Jesus Christ. They have accepted salvation and now live under the influence of the Holy Spirit. This person walks by faith, follows God’s commands, and seeks to grow in their relationship with the Lord.
Characteristics of a Spiritual Man
- Guided by the Holy Spirit – Instead of making decisions based solely on human reasoning, the spiritual man seeks God’s direction.
- Understands Spiritual Truths – Unlike the natural man, the spiritual person can grasp the deep truths of the Bible because they are revealed by the Holy Spirit.
- Exhibits the Fruits of the Spirit – According to Galatians 5:22-23, a spiritual man displays love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
- Has a Renewed Mind – Their thinking aligns with God’s will, and they focus on things that are pure, righteous, and honorable.
- Lives by Faith – The spiritual man relies on God’s promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain.
- Desires Holiness – The spiritual man seeks to grow in righteousness, avoid sin, and live a life that pleases God.
How to Become a Spiritual Person
To become a spiritual man, one must:
- Accept Jesus Christ – Confess Him as Lord and Savior (Romans 10:9-10).
- Receive the Holy Spirit – Allow God to work in your life through His Spirit.
- Develop a Relationship with God – Pray, read the Bible, and fellowship with other believers.
- Obey God’s Word – Follow His commandments and seek to grow spiritually every day.
The Carnal Man: Stuck Between Two Worlds
Who is a Carnal Man?
A carnal person is someone who has accepted Jesus Christ but still struggles with worldly desires. They are caught between living for God and satisfying their human nature.
In 1 Corinthians 3:1-3, Paul describes the carnal man:
“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”
Characteristics of a Carnal Man
- Spiritually Immature – They have accepted salvation but have not grown spiritually.
- Struggles with Sin – They find it difficult to overcome sinful habits.
- Divided Loyalty – They want to follow God but are also drawn to worldly pleasures.
- Inconsistent Faith – Their commitment to God fluctuates based on circumstances.
- Limited Spiritual Understanding – They do not fully grasp deeper biblical truths because they are still dominated by their fleshly desires.
Can a Carnal Man Change?
Yes! A carnal person can grow spiritually by dedicating themselves fully to God. This requires:
- Repentance from sin.
- A commitment to studying and applying the Bible.
- Strengthening their faith through prayer and worship.
- Seeking accountability and mentorship from mature believers.
Conclusion: Where Do You Stand?
Now that you have learned about the natural, spiritual, and carnal man, where do you stand? Are you still living as a natural person, unaware of God’s truth? Are you a spiritual person, walking closely with God? Or do you find yourself as a carnal believer, torn between the world and your faith?
The good news is that regardless of where you are now, God invites you to grow closer to Him. If you have never accepted Jesus, now is the time to do so. If you are carnal, you can fully surrender to God and experience a deeper, richer relationship with Him. And if you are already spiritual, continue growing and helping others on their journey.
Life is about choices. Choose to follow Jesus fully. Choose to live for Him. Your eternity depends on it.
If you are ready to take that step, pray and ask Jesus to come into your life today. He is waiting for you with open arms!
