Natural – The Unregenerate Human Condition

The term "natural" in Scripture describes the unregenerate person — someone who lives according to the inclinations of the flesh rather than the Spirit of God. Understanding the distinction between the natural and the spiritual is essential for every believer, as it reveals both the reality of our former condition and the transformation God works within us through Christ.

The Natural Person Defined

In Scripture the natural person — the unregenerate, non-believer — is one who consistently responds to the carnal human impulses and desires of the flesh. This way of living stands in direct contrast to the spiritual person, the godly believer who is led by the Spirit of God. The natural person operates from a mind and heart that have not been renewed by the Holy Spirit, and therefore their thoughts, motivations, and actions are shaped by the fallen human nature rather than by divine truth (Mt 12:35; Rom 6:16; Gal 5:16-23; Eph 2:3-7; 1 Jn 2:16; 2 Pet 2:19).

The natural mind cannot understand spiritual truths (1 Cor 2:14)

The natural mind is unable to comprehend spiritual truths because it lacks the illuminating work of the Spirit. As Paul writes, "The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit" (1 Cor 2:14). Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God (Rom 8:8). This is not merely a matter of poor choices — it is a fundamental condition of spiritual blindness and bondage.

The New Creation in Christ

Even though we live in a natural body, as Christians we have a continual choice as to which nature we will allow to dominate. We are called to consistently put off the old sinful nature which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires, be made new in the attitude of our minds, and — with His enabling — put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness (Gal 2:20; Eph 4:22-24). This is not self-improvement; it is a radical re-creation of our very identity.

If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation — the old has gone, the new has come (2 Cor 5:17)

"If anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation. The old has gone, the new has come" (2 Cor 5:17). This transformation is both a present reality and an ongoing process. We have been made new positionally through faith in Christ, yet we are responsible to outwork this new — naturally spiritual — lifestyle in our daily conduct. As believers we are being transformed as we choose to crucify the old carnal nature and increasingly walk in the new way of life (Rom 6:4, 8:8, 12:1-2; Gal 5:24).

From Natural to Spiritual

Water baptism serves as an outer sign that a person has chosen to die to the old natural life and live a new life in Christ. It symbolises a divine progression from the natural to the spiritual — a journey from death to life, from bondage to freedom (Rom 6:5-13; 1 Cor 15:46; Col 3:9-10). This progression is not automatic; it requires intentional cooperation with the Spirit's work within us.

Don't try to be anyone other than who God made you to be

Our Christian life should be without any artificiality — no putting on a show to impress others, for any façade is ultimately uncovered. Authentic spirituality is not performance but the genuine fruit of a life surrendered to God. It takes supernatural means to make natural people truly spiritual. God alone, by His Spirit, brings about the deep and lasting transformation that changes us from the inside out, enabling us to live as His people in truth and sincerity.

Reflection and Application:

In what areas of your life do you still operate from the natural mindset rather than the Spirit?
How does understanding your identity as a new creation in Christ change the way you approach daily decisions?
What practical steps can you take to "put off" the old nature and "put on" the new self this week?
Are there any façades or pretences in your walk with God that you need to surrender to Him honestly?