The concept of the "Conflict of Two Natures" is a theological theme primarily derived from the Apostle Paul's writings, particularly in the New Testament. This theme explores the internal struggle between the sinful nature, often referred to as the "flesh," and the new nature given to believers through the Holy Spirit. This conflict is a central aspect of Christian sanctification and spiritual growth.

Biblical Foundation

The primary scriptural basis for the conflict of two natures is found in Paul's Epistle to the Romans. In Romans 7:15-25, Paul vividly describes his personal struggle with sin: "For I do not understand what I am doing. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate" (Romans 7:15). This passage highlights the tension between the desire to do good, which aligns with the new nature, and the propensity to sin, which is rooted in the old nature.

Paul further elaborates on this conflict in Galatians 5:16-17: "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, the "flesh" represents the sinful nature, while the "Spirit" signifies the new nature imparted by the Holy Spirit.

The Old Nature

The old nature, or the "flesh," is characterized by its inclination towards sin and rebellion against God. It is the inherent sinful disposition that all humans possess due to the Fall, as described in Genesis 3. This nature is marked by works of the flesh, which Paul lists in Galatians 5:19-21, including "sexual immorality, impurity, debauchery, idolatry, and witchcraft" , among others.

The old nature is incapable of pleasing God, as Paul states in Romans 8:7-8: "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 nature is in direct opposition to the will and purposes of God.

The New Nature

In contrast, the new nature is the result of regeneration through faith in Jesus Christ. This transformation is described in 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come" . The new nature is characterized by the fruit of the Spirit, which includes "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" (Galatians 5:22-23).

The new nature empowers believers to live in accordance with God's will, as they are indwelt by the Holy Spirit. This indwelling is a seal of their salvation and a source of strength in overcoming the desires of the flesh.

The Ongoing Struggle

Despite the presence of the new nature, believers continue to experience the conflict between the two natures. This struggle is not indicative of a lack of salvation but rather a sign of the ongoing process of sanctification. Paul encourages believers to "put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature" (Colossians 3:5) and to "walk by the Spirit" (Galatians 5:16) to overcome the desires of the flesh.

The conflict of two natures is a reminder of the believer's dependence on God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit. It underscores the importance of spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship, in nurturing the new nature and subduing the old.