The term "natural man" is often used in Christian theology to describe the state of humanity apart from the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. This concept is rooted in the understanding of human nature as it exists in its fallen state, characterized by sin and separation from God. The natural man is contrasted with the "spiritual man," who is regenerated and led by the Spirit of God.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the concept of the natural man in 1 Corinthians 2:14 : "The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned." This passage highlights the inability of the natural man to comprehend spiritual truths, as they require spiritual discernment that comes only through the Holy Spirit.

Characteristics of the Natural Man

1. Spiritually Blind: The natural man is unable to perceive or appreciate the things of God. This spiritual blindness is a result of the fall, as described in Romans 1:21-22 : "For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."

2. Dominated by Sin: The natural man is under the dominion of sin, as stated in Romans 6:20 : "For when you were slaves to sin, you were free of obligation to righteousness." This enslavement to sin prevents the natural man from living in accordance with God's will.

3. Hostile to God: The natural man is inherently opposed to God and His laws. Romans 8:7 explains, "The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so." This hostility is a fundamental aspect of the natural man's nature.

4. Lacking Spiritual Life: Ephesians 2:1-3 describes the natural man as being "dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you used to walk when you conformed to the ways of this world and of the ruler of the power of the air, the spirit who is now at work in the sons of disobedience." This spiritual death signifies a complete separation from the life of God.

The Need for Regeneration

The state of the natural man underscores the necessity of regeneration through the Holy Spirit. Jesus emphasized this need in John 3:3 , saying, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again." Regeneration is the work of the Holy Spirit, who imparts new life and enables the individual to understand and embrace spiritual truths.

Transformation through Christ

The transformation from natural to spiritual man is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This new creation is marked by a renewed mind and heart, capable of discerning and living according to the will of God.

Conclusion

The concept of the natural man serves as a reminder of humanity's need for divine intervention and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. Through regeneration and faith in Christ, individuals are brought from spiritual death to life, enabling them to live in accordance with God's purposes.