Great 8: Distinction of the Spirit Life

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The transformation of the mind stands as one of the most profound markers of the spirit-filled life. As we examine Romans 8:5-13, we discover fundamental distinctions between those who live according to the flesh and those who live according to the Spirit. This passage reveals essential truths about how the Holy Spirit transforms believers' minds, purposes, and actions.

The Transformed Mind of a Believer

The natural mind focuses solely on physical, material, and selfish concerns. While it may contemplate religion, it approaches God on its own terms. However, when the Spirit of God takes residence in a believer's life, a dramatic shift occurs. The mind becomes increasingly oriented toward heavenly things, as evidenced in Proverbs 23:7: "For as he thinks in his heart, so is he."

This transformation isn't achieved through positive thinking or self-improvement. Rather, it's the supernatural work of the Holy Spirit dwelling within. Romans 12:2 captures this truth: "Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." Similarly, Philippians 2:5 instructs us to "have this mind among yourself which is yours in Christ Jesus."

The Battle Between Flesh and Spirit

While believers experience this transformation, they still face an ongoing struggle. The saved person may stumble, wrestling with thoughts of both heaven and flesh. This internal conflict is real – like two dogs fighting within us. As an old preacher once observed, the dog that wins is the one you feed the most.

Galatians 5:16-17 describes this tension: "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."

The carnal mind, focused perpetually on fleshly things, indicates spiritual death. Ephesians 2:1-3 explains that we were all once "dead in trespasses and sins," living in "the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind." However, the mind focused on God and heavenly things demonstrates genuine salvation.

The New Purpose of the Believer

Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God. There's only one way to please Him, as Hebrews 11:6 states: "Without faith it's impossible to please God, since the one who draws near must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." When we receive Christ as Savior, we change realms of existence, moving from flesh to Spirit.

First Corinthians 12:13 affirms this transformation: "For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free, we were all given one Spirit to drink." This spiritual baptism positions us to serve the Lord and live lives that please Him. The indwelling Spirit produces fruit that the flesh could never generate.

Living in the Spirit's Power

The Spirit of God doesn't just change how we think – it transforms how we act. This isn't mere behavior modification or following a religious checklist. Instead, it's living out the righteousness implanted by the Spirit. When someone claims Christ as Savior yet shows no life change, it raises questions about genuine conversion.

First John 1:9 promises, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." The Spirit reproduces Christ's life in believers, as Colossians 1:27 describes: "Christ in you, the hope of glory."

We're no longer obligated to live according to the flesh. Jesus paid our debt in full through His work on the cross. While the flesh still wages war, we stand firm together in God's truth, strengthening one another through transformed minds and the proclamation of Christ's salvation. Though imperfect, genuine believers demonstrate undeniable change – different thoughts, different desires, and a new passion to honor God above self.