UNDERSTANDING THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SPIRITUAL MAN
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Galatians 5:22-25
Key Verse: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
Supporting Texts: Romans 8:6-9, 1 Corinthians 2:15, Ephesians 4:22-24, Colossians 3:1-3, Philippians 2:5
INTRODUCTION:
The life of a believer can only be truly understood and measured in light of their relationship with the Holy Spirit. The “spiritual man” is not just a title; it is a state of being where the believer’s life is under the complete control of God’s Spirit. A spiritual man lives by a different set of principles, walks by divine guidance, and produces the fruits that reflect the nature of Christ.
To understand the characteristics of the spiritual man, we must first grasp that such a person lives in contrast to the “natural” and “carnal” man. The natural man is dominated by the senses and cannot receive the things of God, while the carnal man is a believer who still lives according to the flesh. The spiritual man, however, is led by the Spirit and aligned with the Word of God, producing Christ-like behaviour in every aspect of life.
In this message, we will look deeply at the traits that distinguish the spiritual man. These characteristics are not achieved by human strength but by continuous submission to the Holy Spirit. As we study, may we allow God to transform us so we can walk in the Spirit and reflect His glory in all we do.
1. THE SPIRITUAL MAN WALKS IN LOVE
a) Love as the foundation of Christian living (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)
Love is the first fruit mentioned in the list of the Spirit’s produce, showing it is foundational to all other virtues. Without love, every spiritual gift or achievement becomes empty.
b) Love towards God and people (Matthew 22:37-40)
The spiritual man’s love flows first toward God and then toward people, even those who are difficult to love.
c) Love expressed through sacrifice (John 15:13)
True love is not just in words but in sacrificial actions for the benefit of others.
d) Love as a witness to the world (John 13:35)
The love we show one another is proof to the world that we are truly Christ’s disciples.
Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37) — A man who demonstrated compassion beyond societal boundaries.
2. THE SPIRITUAL MAN DEMONSTRATES SELF-CONTROL
a) Self-control as mastery over desires (Proverbs 25:28)
Without self-control, a person is like a city with broken walls, open to all forms of destruction.
b) Discipline in speech, thoughts, and actions (James 1:19)
A spiritual man guards his tongue, filters his thoughts, and regulates his actions according to God’s Word.
c) Victory over temptations (1 Corinthians 10:13)
The Holy Spirit empowers the believer to resist sinful desires.
d) Avoiding extremes and living in moderation (Philippians 4:5)
A spiritual man does not live in excess but remains balanced in all things.
Biblical Example: Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:7-12) — Choosing God over momentary pleasure.
3. THE SPIRITUAL MAN LIVES IN PEACE
a) Peace as an inner calm from God (John 14:27)
True peace is not the absence of trouble but the presence of God’s assurance in the midst of it.
b) Peace with God through salvation (Romans 5:1)
The spiritual man enjoys peace with God because of justification through faith.
c) Peace with others through forgiveness (Colossians 3:13)
He actively pursues reconciliation and refuses to harbour grudges.
d) Peace as a guard over the heart and mind (Philippians 4:7)
The peace of God protects the believer from anxiety and fear.
Biblical Example: Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:16-23) — Resting in God despite danger.
4. THE SPIRITUAL MAN IS HUMBLE AND MEEK
a) Humility as a reflection of Christ’s nature (Philippians 2:5-8)
The spiritual man models his humility after Jesus, who humbled Himself to the point of death.
b) Meekness as strength under control (Matthew 5:5)
Meekness is not weakness; it is having power but choosing to submit it to God’s will.
c) Avoiding pride and self-exaltation (Proverbs 16:18)
Pride leads to downfall, but humility brings promotion from God.
d) Serving others with a pure heart (Mark 10:44-45)
The spiritual man seeks to serve rather than to be served.
Biblical Example: Moses (Numbers 12:3) — Called the meekest man on earth despite leading millions.
5. THE SPIRITUAL MAN IS LED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT
a) Sensitivity to the Spirit’s leading (Romans 8:14)
The spiritual man does not move by impulse but waits for God’s direction.
b) Making decisions according to God’s Word (Psalm 119:105)
Every choice is weighed against Scripture.
c) Dependence on prayer for guidance (Philippians 4:6)
He seeks God’s counsel before taking action.
d) Living in continual fellowship with God (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
A spiritual man maintains a constant connection with heaven.
Biblical Example: Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-40) — Prompt obedience to the Spirit’s instructions led to salvation for a soul.
CONCLUSION:
The characteristics of the spiritual man are not natural traits but divine fruits produced by the indwelling Holy Spirit. They are evidence that the believer’s life is governed by God’s Word and Spirit.
Our world is in desperate need of men and women whose lives bear these fruits consistently. As we yield daily to the Spirit’s work, we will not only live victoriously but also become shining lights that point others to Christ.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, help me to walk in the Spirit and not fulfil the desires of the flesh.
2. Father, plant Your love deeply in my heart.
3. Holy Spirit, help me to demonstrate self-control in all areas of my life.
4. Lord, fill me with Your peace that passes all understanding.
5. Father, keep me humble and meek in all situations.
6. Lord, make me sensitive to Your voice and leading.
7. Holy Spirit, prune every unfruitful work in my life.
8. Lord, help me to live as a true witness of Christ.
9. Father, strengthen my fellowship with You daily.
10. Lord, make my life a testimony of Your transforming power.
PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You will walk in the Spirit and manifest the fruits of righteousness!
2. The love of God will overflow in your heart and actions!
3. Peace that no trouble can shake will dwell within you!
4. You will operate in self-control and overcome every temptation!
5. Humility and meekness will distinguish your life!
6. The Holy Spirit will lead you into all truth and victory!
7. Your life will attract souls to Christ by your conduct!
8. Every trace of carnality in your life is destroyed now!
9. You will rise as a spiritual giant in this generation!
10. Your life will be a continuous reflection of Christ’s glory!
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