1 Corinthians 2:11 even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God
1 Corinthians 2:11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
What being has the ability to learn and reason those things pertaining to humans, besides the disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of man? Likewise the ability to learn and reason those things pertaining to God is not possible by man, but is only possible through the Spirit which is of God.
Paul establishes that the natural man does not have the ability to perceive anything that concerns or relates to God. This fact is true regardless of whether the person is born again or not. Let me clarify that by saying that a man that is born again has two natures, one natural and one spiritual. The natural nature, which he had prior to regeneration remains, although it has been loosed. This loosing makes way for the spiritual nature to enter into the person. Without this loosening described by Paul in Romans 6:6, the spiritual nature cannot exist within the human body. (See Luke 5:36-39 Mark 2:21-22 Matthew 9:16-17) Therefore, spiritual discernment is only possible after regeneration when the natural man has been loosed and the Spirit has entered in. Once the Spirit is present the person has the ability to discern spiritual things such as the kingdom of God.
Furthermore, Jesus taught that unless a man is born a second time he does not possess this ability, thus rendering the teaching that all men have the ability to be false.
For further study see also:
John 3:3 Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
1 Corinthians 2:14 neither can he know them
Note: You must allow popups for this to work.Thank you for taking the time to read this study. I hope you found this study to be a blessing, and that it has in some way increased your knowledge of our Lord and Savior. If you have questions, or would like to leave a comment, please do not hesitate to do so.
You may also email questions to barry@baptistcommentary.com
Grace to you,
Barry Laminack
Topical References: 1 Corinthians, Dead In Christ, Mans Inability, New Testament, Pauline Theology, Regeneration, Scripture Comment, Spiritual Life & Death, Two Natures |
