"You are a spiritual creature
living a spiritual existence
placed in the natural realm
according to God’s purpose, plan, and will
to bear fruit that will last for the kingdom"
Let’s examine our definition line by line:
You are a spiritual creature: As we just discussed, there are 2 types of existences: the natural and the spiritual, which co-exist at the same time. You are still a natural creature negotiating the natural, but it’s critical that you understand that you are also a spiritual being as well.
Living a spiritual existence: We’re going to cover this in much greater detail later, but understand that what you do in the natural realm affects the spiritual realm and vice versa. The relationship of these two realms may make no sense at all to you right now (that’s ok! – it takes a while to get this concept down!!). As we get into the operation of the spiritual realm we’re going to find that the spiritual realm controls the natural realm. Thus, it’s critical to understand that you utilize “spiritual tools” to accomplish your Godly purpose here in the natural. Probably all very confusing, but it will make sense later – just hold on!
Placed in the natural realm: Even though we have been born again as a spiritual being, we’ve been left here in the natural. As we’ll see later, it’s our job to negotiate the natural as a spiritual being.
According to God’s purpose, plan, and will: God has a great purpose and plan for everyone – including you! It may not be apparent to you now, but God’s word tells us that we all have a purpose!
To bear fruit that will last for the kingdom: The command has never changed – we’re to go bear fruit that will last for the Kingdom.
Rev. Dr. N. Patrick Marica contributes incisive Christian commentary on this blog on a regular basis. He is the Vice-Chancellor of Amherst Theological Seminary, and he has a D. Min. from Amherst Theological Seminary. He has his MA from Liberty University in Marriage and Family Therapy. He is the author of the book: "The Walk Applied: Living the New Creation Life as a Citizen of God's Kingdom in a Secular World". He has also written "The Fasting and Prayer Handbook". He has been married to Kathy since 1985. They have 2 adult daughters and an adult son.
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