What is the difference between the Spirit and the flesh?
In Paul's writings, «the flesh» is the fallen, self-ruled human nature, while «the Spirit» is the Holy Spirit's work in believers. Christian life is walking by the Spirit, not the flesh.
Paul contrasts the flesh and the Spirit especially in Galatians 5 and Romans 8. «The flesh» is not the body — it is the old self-ruled nature that lives apart from God.
«The Spirit» is the Holy Spirit and the new way of life he produces. The flesh produces destructive works (jealousy, strife, immorality); the Spirit produces fruit (love, joy, peace).
Paul commands believers to «walk by the Spirit» — making choices in dependence on God, fed by his Word, surrendered to his lead. The flesh is not eliminated in this life, but the Spirit gives us power to overcome it.
Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.