Topical Encyclopedia In biblical terminology, the concept of "flesh" carries significant theological and moral implications. The term "flesh" is used in various contexts throughout the Scriptures, often symbolizing human nature, mortality, and the propensity towards sin. It is important to understand the multifaceted use of "flesh" to grasp its full biblical meaning.Old Testament Usage In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word for flesh is "basar," which primarily refers to the physical body or the material aspect of living beings. Genesis 2:21-23 describes the creation of woman from man's flesh, emphasizing the physical and relational aspects of humanity: "So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep, and while he slept, He took one of the man’s ribs and closed up the area with flesh. And the LORD God fashioned the rib He had taken from the man into a woman and brought her to him." Flesh also signifies the frailty and mortality of human life. In Isaiah 40:6, the prophet declares, "All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall." This metaphor highlights the transient nature of human existence in contrast to the eternal Word of God. New Testament Usage In the New Testament, the Greek word "sarx" is used for flesh, and it often carries a deeper theological meaning. The Apostle Paul frequently contrasts the flesh with the spirit, using "flesh" to denote the sinful nature inherent in humanity. In Romans 8:5-8, Paul writes, "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." The flesh is depicted as being in opposition to the Spirit, representing the internal struggle between sin and righteousness. Galatians 5:16-17 states, "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." The Incarnation The concept of flesh is also central to the doctrine of the Incarnation. In John 1:14, it is written, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." This profound mystery reveals that Jesus Christ, the eternal Word, took on human flesh to redeem humanity. The Incarnation underscores the sanctity of the human body and God's willingness to enter into the human condition. Moral and Ethical Implications The biblical understanding of flesh has significant moral and ethical implications for believers. Christians are called to live by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. This involves a conscious effort to resist sinful inclinations and pursue holiness. Romans 13:14 exhorts, "Instead, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the desires of the flesh." Conclusion The biblical concept of flesh encompasses both the physical and spiritual dimensions of human existence. It serves as a reminder of human frailty, the reality of sin, and the transformative power of the Spirit. Through the Incarnation, believers find hope in the redemption and sanctification of their flesh, as they strive to live in accordance with God's will. Library Book v. --General Reply to Sundry of Marcion's Heresies. Consistency of the Apostle in his Other Epistles. The Third Clause. The Dissolution of Our Tabernacle Consistent with the Resurrection ... Psalm LVII. Psalm LXXI. The Sacrifice of the Body An Hymn of Heavenly Love Book ii. --Of the Harmony of the Old and New Laws. My Brother Fabius Thesaurus Flesh's (2 Occurrences)... Multi-Version Concordance Flesh's (2 Occurrences). John 1:13 who have been born, not of blood, nor of flesh's will, nor of man's will, but of God. (DBY). ... /f/flesh's.htm - 6k Flew (10 Occurrences) Flesh-pots (1 Occurrence) Resources What is the flesh? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about laziness? | GotQuestions.org Should a Christian be a radical? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Flesh's (2 Occurrences)John 1:13 Galatians 5:16 Subtopics Related Terms |
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