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

Demoniacs

There are two equal and opposite errors

 into which our race can fall about the devils. 

One is to disbelieve in their existence. The other is to believe, 

and to feel an excessive and unhealthy interest in them.” 

― C. S. Lewis

Balancing the Spiritual Equation

Insights from C.S. Lewis and Biblical Teachings on Demoniacs

C.S. Lewis, in his work "The Screwtape Letters," provides deep insights into the two errors humans can make concerning demons—a topic that resonates with biblical teachings and the encounters of Jesus with demonic forces. Let us explore Lewis's perspective within the broader context of Christian spirituality, examining the two errors and drawing connections to scriptural teachings.

C.S. Lewis and the Subtle Influences of Evil:

In "The Screwtape Letters," Lewis delves into the subtle and deceptive ways that evil influences can impact individuals. The collection of letters from Screwtape, a senior demon, to his nephew Wormwood, a junior tempter, offers a unique perspective on human nature, temptation, and the spiritual battle between good and evil. Lewis's exploration of demonic influences serves as a cautionary tale, urging readers to be vigilant and discerning in their spiritual journey.

The Two Errors Concerning Demons:

The heart of Lewis's insight lies in the acknowledgment of two extreme errors humans can make in their perception of demons. The first error is the outright disbelief in their existence, dismissing the spiritual dimension and remaining oblivious to potential influences. The second error, as Lewis articulates, is an excessive and unhealthy fascination with demons, leading to preoccupation and distraction from more significant spiritual truths.

1.  Avoiding the Error of Disbelief:

·        Biblical Grounding: Ephesians 6:12 (ESV) establishes the reality of spiritual forces: "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

·        Jesus' Encounters: The Gospels provide concrete examples of Jesus acknowledging and addressing demonic forces. In Mark 5:1-20, Jesus encounters the possessed man in the region of the Gerasenes, demonstrating His authority by casting out the legion (a unit of 3000-6000) of demons and restoring the man to his right mind.

2.  Avoiding the Error of Excessive Fascination:

·        Biblical Warning: Colossians 2:18 (ESV) warns against unhealthy fascination: "Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind."

·        Jesus' Focus on Authority: In Jesus' encounters with demons, the emphasis is consistently on His authority over them. In Mark 1:23-27, Jesus casts out an unclean spirit from a man in the synagogue, and the witnesses marvel at His authority, not delving into the nature of the demonic but recognizing the supremacy of Christ.

3.  Balanced Perspective:

·        Acknowledging Reality: Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV) encourages a balanced perspective by trusting in the Lord: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

·        Wisdom and Discernment: James 1:5 (ESV) urges believers to seek wisdom and discernment: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." This wisdom includes recognizing spiritual realities while avoiding excessive fixation.

4.  Centering on Christ's Authority:

·        Triumphant Power of Christ: Colossians 2:15 (ESV) emphasizes the triumphant power of Christ: "He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him." By focusing on Christ's authority, believers can navigate the spiritual realm with confidence.

·        Jesus' Final Victory: Revelation 20:10 (ESV) speaks of the ultimate triumph over evil: "And the devil who had deceived them was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur where the beast and the false prophet were, and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever."

Conclusion:

C.S. Lewis's exploration of the errors concerning demons aligns seamlessly with biblical teachings and the encounters of Jesus with demonic forces. Through a combination of verses that establish the reality of spiritual forces, warn against unhealthy fascination, promote a balanced perspective, and highlight Christ's triumphant power, individuals are encouraged to approach the spiritual realm with wisdom, discernment, and a faith firmly rooted in the reality of Christ's authority. By maintaining this balanced perspective, believers can navigate the complexities of the spiritual realm, recognizing the ultimate triumph of Christ over all spiritual forces of darkness.

Soli Deo Gloria

Flames of Fire

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 2:1-4 

As ten days pass after Jesus ascends to heaven (Acts 1:9-11) the disciples watch and wait expectantly for the coming of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost (meaning fiftieth) was the celebration of the first fruits of the wheat harvest festival that was held fifty days after Passover (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16). We wonder whether, during those ten days, the believers spoke among themselves about how the coming of the Holy Spirit upon them would impact their work and ministry. The upper room that accommodated 120 believers must have been a fairly large room (Acts 1:14-15). Among those who gathered regularly in expectant prayer were the Apostles, Mary the mother of Jesus, his brothers and many others. The memories of Jesus’ powerful miracles, teachings, and deep spiritual life filled with works of the Holy Spirit must have been a dominant topic of conversation. 

When the day of Pentecost dawned, their eyes and hearts must have been wide open with excitement, wondering if this holy day would be the day of the awesome outpouring of the Holy Spirit into their lives. As the sun rises up into the sky, suddenly they hear the sound of a powerful wind coming towards them from heaven above. It is amazing that the Hebrew word for Spirit/ Ruach is the same word for breath and wind. It is interesting that the believers heard the sound of a rushing mighty wind. Soon they are engulfed in the fiery flames of the presence of the Holy Spirit. Tongues of fire settle above the heads of the believers, a unique sacred experience (Hebrews 12:29). This is a sign that our hallowed Father of compassion who saved us from the fire of his wrath, will now preserve us as sacred lamps dedicated to glorify Him forever (John 8:12). 

It is awesome the Spirit of God (Ruach Elohim) first referenced in Genesis 1:2, at the beginning of creation as hovering over the surface of the waters, came over Jerusalem and settled on 120 believers. The prophesy of John the Baptist that Jesus would baptize them with Holy Spirit and fire (Matthew 3:11) is fulfilled. The divine presence of the Lord has often been figuratively associated with fire. When Moses encounters God (Exodus 3:2) in exile in the Sinai desert as he is shepherding flock of sheep on Mount Sinai, he sees a blazing bush engulfed in fire. The bush does not seem to be consumed by the fire, and God speaks to Moses from inside the holy flames of the blazing bush. 

As sacred tongues of fire descend upon all the believers present, we see it as symbolic of the fire that begins to purify their hearts and they are emboldened to be witnesses for Christ all over the world. No longer is the Holy Spirit given to few Holy individuals but now a gracious gift poured out on all who believe (Ephesians 2:8). The residents all around hear the sound of blazing mighty wind hurtling through Jerusalem into the meeting place of these believers. Among them were a diaspora of devout Jewish pilgrims from all over the world living in Jerusalem at that time. They came running to see what had happened to cause the sound of the violent gale force wind whirling around the house where the upper room was situated. They were blown away to hear the believers speak in their own native languages (Acts 2:5-13) describing the mighty works of God. The skeptics laughed saying the believers were drunk on cheap wine as they couldn’t make head or tail of any of it.

Christians today remember these Jewish holy days of Passover and Pentecost in the light of Christ’s death and resurrection. Pentecost is a celebration of the first fruits of the Holy Spirit, given as a special gift from God first to 120 believers, and as Peter preached to the crowd drawn by the sound of the rushing winds, 3000 people (Acts 2:41-42) committed themselves to fellowship with the Apostles. It was indeed a bounteous spiritual harvest of the first fruits of the Holy Spirit. 

Jesus promised that if we repent and open our hearts to him, He will send the Holy Spirit to dwell in us to be our companion, comforter, intercessor, counselor, strengthener, and helper (John 15:26-16:15). The Word assures us of the depth of God’s love, that even when we go through the darkest days of our lives, the light of the Holy Spirit will shine through, strengthen us and enable us to endure the hatred and evil in the world (Romans 8:38-39). The Holy Spirit will teach and guide us to be witnesses to the life of Jesus Christ and spread the gospel of his redeeming love (John 16:7). The Epistles enlighten us on the invisible Trinitarian aspect of prayer, where the Holy Spirit prays from within us with groaning too deep for words (Romans 8:26) and Jesus continues to intercede for us (Hebrews 7:24-25) as one who suffered and faced temptation (Hebrews 4:15) to God our Father.

What is it that the Holy Spirit can do that we cannot do? Jesus said that not only will the power of the Holy Spirit cleanse our own hearts but our testimony will convict the hearts of those who hear our message and energize us to lead lives pleasing to God (John 16:8). As the lovely hymn goes, "It only takes a spark to get a fire going. That’s how it is with God’s love, once you have experienced it; you want to pass it on". Do you have a spiritual gift or a special gift that can be a blessing to your community? The believers, once they were filled with the Spirit of God, went through transformation and renewing of their minds, and went on to live out the gospel message of love, peace, and grace. Christ is calling us to be vessels of his love moved by the Holy Spirit to embody the love of God to those around us.

Soli Deo Gloria

Spiritual Blessing

Reading: Romans 1:11-16

Do we feel ashamed of the gospel message and feel that it has no relevance in the world today? St.Paul, as he writes this letter, has made three long successful missionary journeys. But his enthusiasm and eagerness to preach the gospel has only reached a higher level of urgency. Do we have this love and passion to spread God’s Word today? 

For Apostle Paul, it so empowering to see Christians living together in love. Christian fellowship is one of the greatest ways to experience and be encouraged by the power of God in our lives. St. Paul talks of  eagerly wanting to share the spiritual blessing he has come to experience in his life to encourage his brothers and sisters in Christ. He hopes that in doing so he will be encouraged and blessed himself. He is referring to the love and joy that is born when they fellowship together as the Body of Christ. 

Have you experienced this spiritual blessing in your life?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, cleanse us from all our sins and work in our hearts and minds that we may passionately witness to the gospel. We pray for every spiritual blessing that will let us walk rejoicing with the newness of life we have found in you. Amen

Open and Shut Doors

Open and Shut Doors 

 Following the Spirit's Guidance

Lessons from Paul and Silas

In Acts 16:6-8, we read about Paul and Silas on their second missionary journey through Phrygia and Galatia. During this journey, the Holy Spirit directed them not to enter Asia and Bithynia. This divine intervention highlights a critical aspect of Christian living: recognizing and following the Holy Spirit's guidance.

Acts 16:6-8 (NIV) tells us, "Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas."

The Significance of Open and Shut Doors

Throughout Christian history, we see examples of God's guidance through both open and shut doors. David Livingstone, who initially wanted to go to China, was directed by God to Africa. William Carey, who had plans for Polynesia, was sent to India. Similarly, Adoniram Judson set out for India but was guided by God to Burma. These stories exemplify how God places us in the right place at the right time.

Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) reminds us, "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps." When doors close, it can be challenging to understand why. Is it an obstacle from the enemy or a redirection from the Holy Spirit? It is through prayer and seeking God's wisdom that we discern His plans.

Paul's journey continues with a vision of a man from Macedonia calling for help. This vision convinced Paul that the Holy Spirit was leading them to Macedonia. Acts 16:9-10 (NIV) says, "During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, 'Come over to Macedonia and help us.' After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them."

The Fruit of Following God's Guidance

Upon arriving in Philippi, Paul and his companions met Lydia, a wealthy businesswoman, and other women. They opened their hearts to Paul's message, were baptized, and Lydia offered her home for Paul and his companions to stay. Acts 16:14-15 (NIV) records, "One of those listening was a woman from the city of Thyatira named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth. She was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message. When she and the members of her household were baptized, she invited us to her home."

This encounter not only provided a place for Paul and his companions to stay but also facilitated the growth of the early Christian community in Philippi. Lydia and her friends played a crucial role in the ministry and expansion of the church.

Trusting in God's Plan

When we face closed doors, we can find comfort in knowing that God is guiding us to the right path. Paul's experience teaches us to trust in God's timing and direction. His letters to the churches, written during his imprisonment in Rome, have become a significant part of the New Testament, offering guidance and inspiration to Christians around the world. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) states, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Open our eyes to see Your hand leading us as we discern Your plans for our lives. Grant us the wisdom to recognize Your guidance through both open and closed doors. Strengthen us to remain faithful to the growth and ministry of the church, even when we encounter obstacles along the way.

Amen.