In Christian theology, the concept of "contrast with the flesh" refers to the dichotomy between living according to the sinful nature, often termed "the flesh," and living according to the Spirit. This theme is prevalent throughout the New Testament and is central to understanding the Christian life and sanctification process.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul extensively discusses the contrast between the flesh and the Spirit in his epistles. In Galatians 5:16-17 , Paul writes, "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. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want." Here, Paul highlights the inherent conflict between the two natures, emphasizing the need for believers to live by the Spirit to overcome the desires of the flesh.

In Romans 8:5-8 , Paul further elaborates, "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, because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God." This passage underscores the spiritual death that results from living according to the flesh and contrasts it with the life and peace found in the Spirit.

The Works of the Flesh vs. the Fruit of the Spirit

Paul provides a detailed list of the "works of the flesh" in Galatians 5:19-21 , which include "sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, discord, jealousy, rage, rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, carousing, and the like." These behaviors are indicative of a life lived according to the sinful nature and are contrasted with the "fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians 5:22-23 : "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control."

The contrast between these two lists serves as a moral and ethical guide for believers, illustrating the transformation that occurs when one lives by the Spirit. The fruit of the Spirit represents the character and virtues that are cultivated in a believer's life through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Theological Implications

The contrast with the flesh has significant theological implications for understanding salvation, sanctification, and Christian ethics. The New Testament teaches that believers are justified by faith in Christ and are called to live a life that reflects their new identity in Him. This involves a continual process of sanctification, where the believer is progressively conformed to the image of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.

In Ephesians 4:22-24 , Paul instructs believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This passage emphasizes the transformative nature of the Christian life, where the old self, characterized by the flesh, is replaced by the new self, characterized by the Spirit.

Practical Application

For Christians, the contrast with the flesh is not merely a theological concept but a practical reality that affects daily living. Believers are called to actively resist the temptations of the flesh and to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in their lives. This involves regular prayer, study of Scripture, and reliance on the Holy Spirit for strength and guidance.

In Romans 12:1-2 , Paul urges believers, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This call to transformation and renewal is central to living a life that contrasts with the flesh and aligns with the Spirit.