The purpose of this article is to differentiate between physical and spiritual life based on scripture. This will be achieved by firstly illustrating Jesus’ physical and spiritual life, followed by using the same illustration to explain the spiritual and physical life of humanity.
The Physical And Spiritual Life Of Jesus
The diagram provided differentiates between the physical and spiritual aspects of Christ’s life, supported by Bible references. Each stage of his life is further explained in the accompanying commentary section.
A. Jesus proclaimed, “I and the Father are one”, and we know from from Psalm 90:1 that God is from everlasting to everlasting. Therefore Jesus is also from everlasting to everlasting. The beginning of his spiritual life is symbolized by the infinity sign to show his existence before the creation of the universe (John 1:1-4; John 8:58).
B. Point B marks the beginning of Jesus’ physical existence. This signifies the embodiment of the Spirit of God within a human form (Matthew 2:1-2; Luke 2:7). Jesus lives on Earth as both fully human and fully God, embodying 100% humanity and 100% divinity.
C. His physical body was crucified on the cross (John 20:30; Luke 23:46).
D. Jesus’ physical body laid dead for three days, according to 1 Peter 3:19, Jesus, in his spirit form went and preached to the spirits in prison. This verse indicates his continued spiritual existence; he was alive spiritually.
E. Jesus’ is found to have resurrected, and his body made alive again (Matthew 28:9; John 20:24-29).
F. Forty days following his crucifixion, Jesus ascended to heaven, where he now resides at the right hand of the Father, reigning eternally as King (Acts 1:9; Mathew 23:44; Acts 2:33).
G. Jesus Christ lives from an everlasting past to an everlasting future (John 10:30).
The Physical And Spiritual Life Of Man
Our spiritual journey commences with repentance, also known as being “born again.” This signifies the end of our old selves and the start of a new life in Christ Jesus through accepting Him as our Lord and Savior. This journey is illustrated in the diagram below.
A. An individual begins their physical existence upon birth to their biological parents (John 3:6).
B. The individual grows in stature and cognitive development, navigating a life devoid of spiritual guidance while seeking purpose, peace, fulfillment, and more (Matthew 6:25-32).
Upon receiving the word of God, individuals repent and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This act of repentance leads to the bestowal of the Holy Spirit, signifying the commencement of their spiritual life and admission into the Kingdom of God, where they are granted eternal life. By engaging in reflection and studying the scriptures, their spiritual resilience is fortified, enabling them to lead a life guided by holiness and righteousness.
The presence of the Spirit of God in their lives brings about inner contentment, spiritual maturity, and a sense of fulfillment. Consequently, material aspects such as wealth, health, career, family, and relationships become supplementary blessings stemming from their allegiance to Jesus Christ (Acts 1:5;8 John 3:6; Romans 8:14).
C. Upon the individual’s passing, their body is laid to rest and remains dead and buried. This signifies the end of the individual’s physical life.
D. Though the individual body dies, their spiritual life continues, they will never perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
E. The bible promises that all Christians will rise from the grave when Jesus Christ returns (1 Thessalonians 4:16).
F. After the resurrection we will be with Christ forever, both physically and spiritually. Our bodies will be renewed and transformed into immortal bodies (1 Corinthians 16: 42-5).
Final Remarks On Physical And Spiritual Life
Physical life is marked by birth to our parents, we have their DNA that marks us as their children. Spiritual life is marked by receiving the Holy Spirit which marks us as children of God (Romans 8:14). This birth was made possible by the blood of Jesus shed on the cross.
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