Luther Rice Journal of Christian Studies Vol. 2, Spring 2017 When Scripture refers to the material part of man it uses several different words – basar, soma, sarx – and phrases – body of sin, body of death, body of humiliation, earthen vessel, natural body, spiritual body – the glorified human body. Table 1 identifies the basic terms as they relate specifically to the physical body. Table 2 relates to the use of the different phrases as they are used that have a bearing on the physical nature of man. In listing these terms in the two tables it becomes apparent that sin has affected the physical part of man. After considering the spiritual part of man, the impact of sin upon man’s design will be addressed.
Phrases that relate to the physical part of man.
Body of Sin Rom. 6:6 Body of Death Rom. 7:24 Earthen Vessel 2 Cor. 4:7 Natural Body 1 Cor. 15:44, 52-54 Spiritual Body 1 Cor. 15:44, 52-54
Table 2 Basic Meaning The Physical Body with reference to the The Physical Body without reference to Ethical Influence – either positively or the Ethical Influence – more ontological negatively in focus. The physical body that is controlled and conditioned by sin14 Human mortality as a result of sin Man’s finite weakness as a physical being. Man’s unglorified earthly body Man’s glorified physical body15
It is important to note here that the physical substance of being human is never said to be evil itself. Greek dualism makes this mistake by treating what is physical as imperfect. What is important to our discussion here is that being a physical or material being is not by itself sinful.
14
Here one aspect of the sin nature continues to exist in a believer, namely the corruption passed down from Adam. The other aspect of the sin nature, namely mankind’s legal standing before God as condemned is not in view here as it has already been dealt with by our union with Christ (Romans 8:1) as believers (disciples of Jesus Christ) who now have His righteousness, are declared righteous, and are family members. 15
This phrase clearly has a positive ethical nuance to it as sin is no longer influencing the glorified human
body.
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