Spirit vs. Soul

The Soul and the Spirit

What’s the Difference and Why It Matters

Understanding the Deepest Parts of Our Being

What does it mean to be a spiritual being? How do the soul and spirit differ in the Christian life? While these terms are often used interchangeably, Scripture makes a distinction between them, and understanding this difference can deepen our relationship with God.

The soul is the seat of our emotions, intellect, and will—our unique personality and the way we relate to the world. In contrast, the spirit is that innermost part of us designed for communion with God, the place where we are born again and transformed by the Holy Spirit. 

Throughout Christian history, theologians and spiritual writers have reflected on this distinction. In this exploration, we’ll draw insights from them, along with supporting biblical texts. We’ll examine how the soul engages with life through thoughts and emotions, while the spirit leads us into deeper communion with God.

1. Biblical Basis for the Distinction

The Bible sometimes makes a distinction between the spirit and the soul:

Hebrews 4:12 – “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”Barclay’s insight into this verse emphasizes that true transformation comes not from surface-level devotion, but from the deep penetration of God’s truth into our spirit, bringing genuine change. In this light, Hebrews 4:12 serves as both a comfort and a challenge—a comfort because God’s Word shapes us for His glory, and a challenge because it leaves no room for self-deception.

1 Thessalonians 5:23 – “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

William Barclay, in his commentary on 1 Thessalonians 5:23, highlights Paul’s holistic view of human nature—spirit, soul, and body—and how sanctification is a work that affects the entire person. Barclay explains that Paul is not dividing humans into three separate parts, but rather emphasizing that God’s sanctifying power must permeate every aspect of our being.

2. The Soul: The Seat of Personality and Emotion

Martyn Lloyd-Jones describes the soul as the aspect of our being that contains our personality, will, emotions, and mind:

“The soul is the animating principle of man’s personality, his emotions, intellect, and will. It is what makes a person unique in their thoughts and decisions.”

— Martyn Lloyd-Jones, Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cure

The soul encompasses our inner life, including our thoughts, desires, and memories. It is what makes us self-aware and enables us to relate to others.

David says in Psalm 42:11 – “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Jesus says in Matthew 26:38 – “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death.”Barclay suggests that while Jesus’ soul was overwhelmed with sorrow, His spirit remained steadfast in communion with God. This distinction is important:

• The soul expresses human emotion – Jesus’ sorrow was real and agonizing.

• The spirit aligns with God’s will – Despite His soul’s suffering, His spirit yielded to God’s plan.

These verses reflect the emotional and psychological nature of the soul, which experiences joy, sorrow, and inner turmoil.

3. The Spirit: The Part That Connects to God

While the soul is the seat of emotions and intellect, the spirit is that part of a person that directly connects with God.

Dallas Willard explains this beautifully:

“The spirit is the fundamental essence of a person, the deep, hidden core of our being where we encounter God. It is that part which is made to commune with the divine.”

— Dallas Willard, Renovation of the Heart

Unlike the soul, which experiences human emotions and thought processes, the spirit is the eternal, God-conscious aspect of our being. It is through our spirit that we receive divine revelation and are born again.

Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” This verse highlights the difference between spirit (pneuma) and soul (psychē). The soul is where our emotions, intellect, and will reside, while the spirit is where we experience direct communion with God.

• Our soul may doubt—we may feel unworthy, confused, or fearful.

• Our spirit, however, is where God’s Spirit speaks—giving us assurance that we are truly His.

John 3:6 – “Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.”Jesus’ words to Nicodemus— Barclay clarifies that “flesh” (sarx) does not simply mean physical flesh, but rather human nature in its fallen, limited state—a life that is confined to earthly desires, reasoning, and effort. In contrast, the Spirit (pneuma) refers to the divine power of God that transforms the human heart and gives it new life.

• “Flesh gives birth to flesh” → Human life can only reproduce more human life; it cannot produce spiritual life.

• “Spirit gives birth to spirit” → Only God’s Spirit can awaken and regenerate the human spirit, bringing new life.

Barclay emphasizes that Christianity is not about improving the natural self but about being reborn through the Spirit. This suggests that while our soul engages with the world through reason and emotion, our spirit is awakened and transformed by God.

4. Richard Foster and Eugene Peterson on Spiritual Life

Richard Foster, in Celebration of Discipline, emphasizes the difference between the soul’s activities and the spirit’s connection with God:

“The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people.”

— Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline

This “deepness” refers to the spiritual life—a life that goes beyond mere intellectual understanding (soul) and enters into true communion with God (spirit).

Similarly, Eugene Peterson in The Contemplative Pastor emphasizes that spiritual growth is more than just emotions and thoughts; it is about deep inner formation:

“Spiritual formation is not something we do, but something done to us. It is the work of the Holy Spirit shaping our innermost being into Christlikeness.”

— Eugene Peterson, The Contemplative Pastor

This echoes Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

The transformation is not just of the soul (mind and emotions) but of the spirit, leading to communion with God.

5. Practical Application: Living by the Spirit

Understanding the difference between the soul and spirit helps us navigate Christian life:

• The soul helps us relate to others, express emotions, and make decisions.

• The spirit enables us to know and worship God, receive revelation, and experience regeneration.

Paul urges believers to live by the Spirit, not just by their soul’s emotions or intellect:

• Galatians 5:16 – “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”

• John 4:24 – “God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.”

Conclusion: A Call to Spiritual Depth

The soul is essential—it enables human experience, reason, and emotion. But without the spirit being awakened and surrendered to God, the soul remains incomplete.

As Dallas Willard puts it:

“Spiritual transformation is not a matter of trying harder, but of training wisely. It is the discipline of engaging with God at the level of our deepest being.”

— Dallas Willard, The Spirit of the Disciplines

True life comes when the spirit is made alive in Christ, leading the soul into right thinking, feeling, and action.

Reflection Question:

Are you living more by your soul (thoughts, emotions, will) or by your spirit (deep communion with God)? How can you nurture your spirit to shape your soul in Christlikeness?

Prayer for Spiritual Depth

Heavenly Father,

You have created me with a soul to think, feel, and choose—but I know that without Your Holy Spirit guiding me, my soul remains incomplete. Awaken my spirit, Lord, and draw me deeper into communion with You. Teach me to walk by Your Spirit so that my thoughts, emotions, and will are shaped by Your truth rather than my own desires.

Help me not to rely on my strength, but to be transformed by Your presence within me. Let my spirit lead my soul into right thinking, feeling, and action, so that my life reflects Christ. Train me in wisdom, Lord, and form me into the person You created me to be.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Rebuilding the Temple

Empowered by the Spirit

God’s Call, Spirit, and Purpose

Not by Might, Nor by Power

Zechariah’s Vision and Our Mission

Zechariah’s Encouragement for Discouraged Builders

 

The Book of Zechariah unfolds during a time of profound discouragement. The Jews had returned from Babylonian exile, but their hope of a restored Temple—a symbol of God’s presence — remained unfulfilled. They faced opposition, exhaustion, and fear. Yet, through Zechariah, God spoke hope and encouragement, calling His people to rebuild the Temple. This wasn’t just about bricks and mortar; it was a significant moment in God’s redemptive plan.

Zechariah’s message is not only for ancient Israel it speaks to all believers. Like the Israelites, we are called to build God’s kingdom in a world full of challenges. To fulfill this calling, we must rely on the Spirit of God. As Zechariah 4:6 proclaims:

“Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.”

Zechariah’s Call to Rebuild

Alexander Maclaren beautifully observed, “Every stone laid on the Temple was a prophecy. Every blow of the hammer on the unfinished building rang with the promise of a better covenant.” This reconstruction signified far more than the physical rebuilding of a structure—it was a profound act of spiritual renewal, reminding the people that God’s purposes surpass human understanding.

Zechariah’s call to rebuild wasn’t merely about restoring a physical temple; it was a summons to rekindle faith, renew obedience, and restore hope. The Temple, as a symbol of God’s presence, declared that God had not forsaken His people, even after the exile. Undertaking this work was an act of trust, requiring perseverance amidst opposition and discouragement. Yet Zechariah’s visions reassured the people that the task was ultimately God’s mission, carried out through their obedience.

Rebuilding God’s work has never been easy, but it is always sustained by His power. Matthew Henry noted, “God’s work shall go forward, and His interests be preserved, in spite of all opposition, and the unbelief of those who should be forwarding it.” The rebuilding of the Temple was a pivotal step in God’s unfolding plan, pointing ahead to Christ and the establishment of His eternal kingdom.

As David Guzik explains, “God’s plans are bigger than our setbacks, and His purposes extend beyond what we see.” Each stone placed in the Temple bore witness to God’s faithfulness and His promise to dwell among His people. Ultimately, the Temple’s rebuilding foreshadowed the coming of Christ, who would fulfill the law and establish a new covenant. Today, this call reminds us that even our smallest acts of obedience are part of God’s grand, eternal plan.

The Spirit’s Empowerment

The rebuilding of the Temple was entirely dependent on the power of God’s Spirit. Zechariah 4:6 captures this truth: “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,” shifting the focus from human capability to divine strength. This verse underscores that God’s work is accomplished not through human ingenuity or resources, but through His Spirit. As Eugene Peterson insightfully noted, “Zechariah redirects the weary builders’ vision from their own weakness to the infinite power of God’s Spirit.” That same power, available to all who trust in Him, remains just as relevant today.

Charles Spurgeon observed, “The Spirit of God can work mightily where all human effort fails. If we are to see the glory of God in our time, it must be by the Spirit of the Lord.” It is precisely in moments of limitation and weakness that God’s Spirit displays His power most clearly. The Israelites, faced with opposition and discouragement, found strength and perseverance in the Spirit, just as we must rely on Him in advancing God’s kingdom.

Derek Prince explained that the Spirit does more than empower; He brings clarity, guidance, and alignment with God’s purposes. Whether we are proclaiming the gospel, leading a ministry, or walking faithfully in daily life, it is the Holy Spirit who equips, sustains, and strengthens us for the task. Without Him, we would falter in the face of challenges or lose sight of God’s mission.

The Spirit’s empowerment remains as vital for us as it was for the Israelites. God’s work cannot be accomplished by human effort alone, but through the Spirit’s unceasing presence and power, we are equipped to persevere and bring glory to His name.

God Protects His Builders

Zechariah’s message to the Israelites emphasized not only God’s call to rebuild but also His promise of protection for those engaged in His work. In Zechariah 2:5, the Lord proclaims, “I will be to her a wall of fire all around…and I will be the glory in her midst.” This vivid imagery reassured the people that God’s presence would guard them from harm and that He would dwell among them, bringing divine protection and peace. This promise gave them the courage to persevere despite external opposition and internal doubts.

N.T. Wright insightfully observes, “God’s protection is not a distant shield but an active presence that surrounds and sustains His people.” This assurance reminded the Israelites—and reminds us—that God’s care is personal and dynamic. His presence is both our defense against external threats and the source of inward strength.

John Calvin reinforced this truth by highlighting God’s sovereignty: “God holds the reins of the whole world in His hands, and He overrules all opposition to the building of His kingdom.” God’s ultimate authority guarantees the success of His purposes, no matter the challenges faced by His people.

This divine assurance is a powerful encouragement for us today. Whether we are confronting personal trials or opposition in advancing God’s kingdom, we can trust in His unshakable protection. He not only guards His work but ensures that His glory will shine through it.

Building for the Future

The rebuilding of the Temple was about far more than restoring a physical structure—it was a pivotal step in God’s unfolding plan of redemption, culminating in the coming of Christ. Every stone placed symbolized a larger story of salvation, as Derek Prince observed: “Zechariah’s visions are glimpses into God’s grand design, showing that even our seemingly small acts of obedience are part of an eternal story.” The Israelites’ labor was not merely for their generation; it pointed forward to the ultimate Temple, Jesus Christ, through whom God’s presence would dwell with humanity.

Patrick Miller expands on this, emphasizing, “To rebuild is to participate in God’s unfolding drama, where our faithfulness today paves the way for His glory tomorrow.” Their obedience to God’s call served as an act of faith that reverberated through history, paving the way for God’s greater work. This is true for us as well—our faithful efforts in service to God may seem small, but they carry eternal significance.

Rick Warren reminds us, “What we build for God will outlast us if it is done in obedience and reliance on Him.” When we labor for God, guided by His Spirit, we become part of a work that transcends time. Just as the Israelites’ rebuilding effort prepared the way for Christ, our faithful service today lays the foundation for God’s kingdom work in the future.

A Call to Us Today

Zechariah’s message is timeless, reminding believers that God’s call to rebuild is not confined to the past but continues in our lives today. The work of rebuilding is as much spiritual as it is physical. Henri Nouwen insightfully wrote, “Spiritual building begins with surrender. It is the Spirit of God who forms the house of God within us and through us.” This surrender involves yielding our plans, ambitions, and fears to God, trusting Him to work through us as we labor for His kingdom.

Dallas Willard further expands this idea, stating, “The true Temple is not found in a place but in a people—a people who are yielded to the Spirit and devoted to the mission of God.” As believers, we are now the living stones of God’s spiritual temple (1 Peter 2:5), called to reflect His presence in our lives and communities.

This call requires faithfulness, humility, and a commitment to God’s purposes. Each act of service, however small, becomes part of the greater story of God’s redemption. Just as the Israelites rebuilt the physical Temple in obedience, we are called to build God’s kingdom by proclaiming the gospel, making disciples, and living as His faithful witnesses. Through surrender and reliance on the Holy Spirit, we become active participants in God’s ongoing mission to renew and restore the world.

Key Lessons for Today

1. Faith Over Fear: Trust that God is with you in the work He calls you to do (Zechariah 2:5).

2. Empowerment by the Spirit: Rely on God’s Spirit, not your own strength (Zechariah 4:6).

3. Eternal Perspective: Remember that our work for God is part of His eternal plan (Zechariah 8:9-13).

Building God’s Kingdom Together

Zechariah’s encouragement to rebuild the Temple points us to a larger truth: God calls His people to participate in His redemptive plan. We may face opposition, discouragement, and exhaustion, but the Spirit of God equips us with strength, protection, and vision. Let us rebuild with courage and trust, knowing that the work we do for Him will endure.

A Prayer for Rebuilding

Lord,

Thank You for calling us to be part of Your redemptive work. When we feel discouraged, remind us that Your Spirit empowers us. Help us to rely not on our strength but on Your might. Protect us as we labor for Your glory, and give us a vision of the eternal purposes You are unfolding. May our work bring honor to Your name and hope to the world. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

Sharing Jesus in Spirit and Truth

Called to Proclaim 

Sowing Seeds of Faith

Faith Without Coercion

Sharing the Authentic Jesus with a Seeking World

Evangelism Rooted in Love and Truth

Scripture: Romans 10:14-21

“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” – Romans 10:14

In Paul’s letter to the Romans, he unfolds the heartbeat of evangelism, asking four key questions in Romans 10:14-15 that resonate through the ages. Each question challenges us to consider how the message of salvation reaches the world. But Paul’s message is more than a call to share the gospel—it’s an invitation to embody Christ in a way that draws people to the authentic Jesus.

What is Evangelism?

Evangelism is sharing the good news of Jesus Christ, embodying God’s grace and truth to others. John Stott defines evangelism as “spreading the good news with the intention of making converts,” while Eugene Peterson describes it as “a lifelong project of listening, inviting, and loving.” Evangelism isn’t about forcing belief; it’s about living and speaking in a way that reveals Jesus authentically, relying on the Holy Spirit to draw people’s hearts.

God’s Commission to Evangelize

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus gave us the Great Commission, sending us into the world to make disciples. Evangelism is an act of obedience to God’s love. William Barclay observed, “No one is truly a Christian unless they wish others to be a Christian too.” Sharing our faith is an expression of God’s heart for all people, and Paul emphasizes that sharing is essential, for “how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?”

Why So Many Jews Rejected Jesus

Paul’s pain over Israel’s unbelief runs deep. Many Jews of Paul’s day expected a messiah who would liberate them politically, not spiritually. Their misunderstanding of Jesus’ mission led to disappointment and rejection. N.T. Wright explains, “Israel was looking for a conqueror, but instead they were given a Savior.” This discrepancy reveals how expectations shape receptivity. Paul’s message is a reminder to present the authentic Jesus—a Savior who liberates from sin and calls us into a transformed life.

The Authentic Jesus to Present

To be effective witnesses, we must present the true Jesus. Philip Yancey writes, “Jesus met each person at their level of need, without trying to fit them into a mold.” The Jesus we share must be one who meets people in their struggles, loves without judgment, and offers grace and truth. The gospel isn’t a sales pitch; it’s an invitation into a relationship with a Savior who knows us deeply and loves us unconditionally.

The Holy Spirit’s Role in Evangelism

Evangelism relies on the mysterious work of the Holy Spirit. We plant seeds, but only God makes them grow. Charles Spurgeon reminds us, “Without the Spirit of God, we can do nothing. We are as ships without wind.” When we share the gospel, the Holy Spirit stirs hearts, opens minds, and draws souls to Christ. Paul knew that while he could preach and persuade, only the Spirit could transform a heart.

Paul’s Four Questions: The Duties of Evangelism

Paul’s four questions in Romans 10:14-15 are like a road map for evangelism:

1. “How can they call on the one they have not believed in?” Evangelism calls us to make God known.

2. “How can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?” Our mission is to share God’s Word with those who have yet to hear it.

3. “How can they hear without someone preaching to them?” We are each called to proclaim.

4. “How can anyone preach unless they are sent?” Evangelism begins with a heart obedient to God’s call.

 

A Call to Share the Living Word

Paul’s words remind us that our call to evangelism isn’t about perfecting a formula; it’s about presenting the Word and allowing God to work. William Barclay noted, “Christianity must always be transmitted by man to man. It’s a faith that speaks.” As we go out to share the gospel, let us trust that the power lies not in us but in the Word we carry. Whether people accept or reject, our duty is to proclaim faithfully and leave the rest to God.

“So Faith Comes from Hearing” – Romans 10:17

In Romans 10:17, Paul emphasizes that “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Here, he shows us that faith is a gift sparked by the gospel. Alexander Maclaren puts it well: “The gospel is not a thing of mere words, but of power.” When we share the Word, we invite the Holy Spirit to soften hearts and create the miracle of belief.

This hearing isn’t just listening to sounds; it’s truly encountering Christ. Eugene Peterson described this hearing as “paying reverent attention to what God has done.” Through the gospel, listeners encounter the Jesus who walked among us, healed, forgave, and sacrificed Himself in love. This encounter allows faith to blossom. We can share testimonies and embody Christ’s love, but ultimately, it’s hearing God’s Word that takes root. Faith doesn’t come by our strength; it comes through “the word of Christ,” awakening belief in the heart.

Evangelism Without Coercion

Authentic evangelism respects freedom. John Bunyan captures this spirit in The Pilgrim’s Progress, where Christian’s journey unfolds with grace and conviction, but not coercion. Faith cannot be forced; it must be freely chosen. Alexander Maclaren warns, “Compulsion in religion is just as impious as indifference.” Our task is to speak truth, not to control or manipulate; the Spirit does the convincing.

The Balance: Avoiding Inactivity and Overactivity

There’s a balance in evangelism between inactivity and overactivity. Some of us hesitate to share out of fear, while others become overly zealous. Matthew Henry encourages, “Do not neglect the call of Christ to go and make disciples, but remember it is the Holy Spirit who will empower you.” God invites us to a pace that’s steady, loving, and Spirit-led, where we avoid burnout and stay sensitive to His leading.

Conclusion: Called to Be Messengers

Paul’s call to evangelize is a summons to love deeply and speak faithfully. We share not because we must, but because the love of Christ compels us. As John Stott writes, “The greatest gift we can give someone is Jesus.” May we carry the gospel with humility and boldness, trusting the Holy Spirit to work in ways we cannot see, and may we join in the Great Commission with a heart that rejoices when others come to know the Savior we cherish.

Prayer:

Lord, fill our hearts with a love for others that reflects Your love for us. Help us to be faithful messengers, sharing the truth of Jesus with humility and grace. Guide our words and actions by Your Spirit, that we may reflect the authentic Jesus and draw people closer to You. Strengthen us to share without fear, trusting that You are the one who transforms hearts. 

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria