[A carnal man can only act from carnal motives : he will have carnal aims even in spiritual employments6. A spiritual man, on the contrary, will act from spiritual motives : he will act with spiritual views even in his temporal concerns. The one will seek his own interest or honour, and the other God's glory f.]
This difference in the operation of the two prin- ciples causes a corresponding difference, II. In their effects —
The effect of the carnal principle is beyond mea- sure awful —
[This principle reigning in us proves us destitute of life ; yea, rather, the reign of it is itself a state of spiritual " death:" it must moreover terminate in everlasting death. This is irreversibly decreed by Godg; and it must be so in the very nature of things11.]
The effect of the spiritual principle is inexpressibly glorious —
[Wherever it prevails, it is a proof of spiritual life : it is also invariably the means of filling the soul with " peace." Nor can it issue otherwise than in eternal life and peace. This also is according to the express constitution of God1; and it must be so in the very nature of things k.]
Address —
1. The carnal-minded —
[In what a lamentable state are they whose consciences testify that their thoughts, affections, and aims, are altogether carnal! Let it be remembered that it is God who declares this. Who would dare to continue in such a state another day? Let those who feel their misery plead that promise1 — There is the same grace for them as has been effectual for others.]
2. The spiritual-minded —
[Happy they who are of this description! Let such adore the grace that has caused them to differ from others.
e Zech. vii. 5, 6. f 1 Cor. x. 31. s Gal. vi. 7.
h What comfort could a carnal person have in heaven ? there are no objects there suited to his inclination ; nor has he any delight in the employments of the celestial spirits.
1 Gal. vi. 8.
k Spiritual-mindedness constitutes our meetness for heaven, while it is also an anticipation and foretaste of heaven.
1 Ezek. xxxvi. 26.