THE PROBLEM OF CARNALITY
TEXT: Romans 8:5-9
Introduction: Our English word “carnal” comes from a Latin root “carnis” meaning flesh or meat—carnivore, “chili con carne.” However, the application has usually come to be metaphorical, referring to attitude, rather than literal.
It is defined to mean pertaining to the fleshly or worldly appetites and desires rather than to the godly and spiritual desires. Forms of the word are found in the Scriptures, so we’d do well to know what it means and understand what God’s word says about it.
Read TEXT. Notice the emphasis—in the original, the word translated “flesh” in vs. 5, 8, and 9 is the exact same word translated “carnally” and “carnal” in vs. 6-7. What does it mean to be carnal? How does being carnal show itself in our lives? What can be done to avoid being carnally minded?
Let’s look at the Scriptures and see what we can learn about TITLE.
I. What does carnality mean?
A. Basically, it means to be under the control of the flesh: Rom. 7:14-18
B. Thus, those who are carnal devote their minds and lives to the things of the flesh: Eph. 2:1-3
C. It is the opposite of being spiritually minded (v. 6): Phil. 3:16-21, Col. 3:1-2
II. What is the result of carnality?
A. One result is not developing spiritually: 1 Cor. 3:1-4
B. Another result is following the works of the flesh: Gal. 5:19-21

C. The ultimate result is “passing away” rather than “living forever”: 1 Jn. 2:15-17
III. How can we overcome carnality?
A. First, we must recognize and admit that there is a battle with the flesh: Matt. 26:41
B. Next, we must look to God for the way of escape: 1 Cor. 10:13
C. Then, we must use the weapons of our warfare to fight the flesh: 2 Cor. 10:4—these include prayer: Phil. 4:6-7; and the Scriptures: 2 Tim. 3:16-17
Conclusion: 1 Peter 4:1-2
God is our Creator, and if we wish to dwell with Him in heaven, we must determine to live for His will rather than for the carnal lusts of the flesh.
Are you / am I carnal?

By Wayne S. Walker

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