Does Scripture support two classes of Christians, carnal and spiritual (cf., 1 Cor. 2:14-3:3)?
- Spirituality is always a quality to move toward, not one that is possessed. Nowhere in Scripture are believers commanded to be spiritual. Instead Scripture commands progressive maturity (Eph. 4:13; Philip. 3:13-15).
- Sin for those truly born of God is episodal, not habitual (1 Jn. 1:8-19; 3:9).
- In every case where sinful patterns are present, they are always condemned, not condoned or explained away.
- All true believers have been “washed” and “sanctified” (1 Cor. 6:11), yet every Christian is characterized by varying degrees of holiness and sinfulness. Hence, the terms “spiritual” and “carnal” as used in common Christian parlance apply in some measure to all believers.
Good post Paul. I believed this (two classes) for a long time due to the influence of Lewis Sperry Chafer and other Dallas profs of the day. It was D. A. Carson that finally shook me loose in his little work “The Cross and Christian Ministry” (Baker Books). It is still quite prevalent in many circles.