1 And He has made you alive, who were once dead in trespasses and sins, 2 in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now works in the children of disobedience; 3 among whom we also had our way of life in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the thoughts, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
Ephesians 2:1-3 (NKJV）
Discussion Questions:
- How does Scripture describe the natural man and in what ways is the natural man ruled by Satan or influenced by walking according to the course of this world. As tripartite beings (spirit, soul, and body), how does an unbeliever’s spiritual condition—particularly the state of their spirit and soul—differ from that of a believer in Christ? (1Thessalonians 5:23; 2 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Corinthians 2:14)
- Given that believers are new creations in Christ, why do believers still struggle with carnal behaviors like jealousy, bitterness, and sexual immorality – essentially living like the natural man rather than walking in the new nature? An unrenewed mind keep Christians in spiritual infancy and what practical steps can we take to progress from this carnal state to spiritual maturity, particularly in the transformation of our soul (mind, will, and emotions)? （2 Corinthians 5:17；Romans 5:18-19；1Corinthians 3:1-3）
- Why can one’s spiritual maturity not be determined by the spiritual gifts or Bible knowledge? What are the characteristics of a spiritual man? Discuss what it means to be walking in the Spirit.（1 Corinthians 3:1；Colossians 1:12-14）
Sermon Summary
This week’s sermon concludes our study on humanity’s tripartite nature (spirit, soul, body) by examining spiritual growth stages: The natural man (unbeliever) lives by worldly patterns; the carnal Christian (born-again but immature) still exhibits fleshly behaviors; while the spiritual man demonstrates God’s Word transforming mind and body. Without soul renewal (mind, will, emotions), believers remain carnal, causing internal turmoil. Spiritual maturity requires walking in the Spirit, surrendering to the Holy Spirit, bearing spiritual fruit, and growing into Christ’s likeness – a journey from infancy to maturity in Him.