From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 3): Progression, Not Perfection

From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 3): Progression, Not Perfection

One of the most freeing truths in Paul’s teaching is that spiritual maturity is not about arriving at perfection—it’s about moving forward in progression. The renewed mind isn’t something we wake up with. It’s something we grow into, step by step, thought by thought, decision by decision. And if we’re honest, many believers need to hear this. Because too often, we measure ourselves against an ideal and feel defeated before we even begin.

But here’s the key: spiritual maturity isn’t an on/off switch—it’s a lifelong process. Every believer starts at 100% carnal thinking. That’s the only mindset we’ve ever known before coming to Christ. The world shaped our values, our reactions, our priorities. And even after we’re saved, that carnal mind doesn’t just vanish. It must be replaced—intentionally and repeatedly—with the mind of Christ.

Now, let’s be clear: a carnal mind isn’t just a mind that’s prone to sin or always thinking evil thoughts. That’s a shallow definition. A carnal mind is simply the default human mindset—even if it’s thinking “good” things. It can be moral, kind, generous, and still be at enmity with God. Why? Because it operates independently of the Spirit. It has its own motives, its own logic, and it’s not driven by the love of Christ. That’s why Paul says in Romans 8:7,

“The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.”

Think of it like this: on one end of the scale is the natural man—dead in sins, steeped in worldly thinking. On the other end is the fully renewed mind of Christ. And every believer is somewhere in between. You can move forward on that scale, and yes, you can slide backward too. Because it’s not about having a carnal mind in the absolute sense—it’s about what you’re paying attention to. What are you minding? What are you giving your focus to?

Paul says in Philippians 3:20,

“For our conversation is in heaven…”

That word “conversation” isn’t just about speech—it’s about mindset and focus. What we talk and focus on reveals what we mind. If our conversations are dominated by earthly concerns, we’re still rooted in the carnal. But if we’re focused on and speaking our doctrine; of heavenly things, eternal truths, and the gospel’s advancement, we’re moving toward the spiritual.

This is why spiritual growth requires intentionality. You don’t drift into maturity. You row against the current. And the moment you stop rowing, the carnal tide pulls you back. That’s why Paul urges us to set our affection on things above (Colossians 3:2). It’s not a suggestion—it’s a command. Because the spiritual mind doesn’t come naturally. It must be cultivated through the Word of God and a willingness to forsake the old.

So don’t be discouraged by where you are on the scale. Be encouraged that you’re on it. Progression, not perfection, is the goal. Every time you choose to think spiritually, speak spiritually, and act spiritually, you’re moving closer to the mind of Christ. And with each step, you’ll find more of the life and peace that God has promised.

Inspired by and adapted from this video: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXAXfJ2KPk0