“Because the carnal mind is enmity against God… So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” —Romans 8:7–8, KJV

ABSTRACT

This article explores the biblical and prophetic diagnosis of humanity’s inherent spiritual condition within the framework of the Great Controversy. Drawing from Scripture, particularly the writings of the Apostle Paul in Romans and Galatians, and insights from Ellen G. White, it argues that humans are born in a state of depravity—alienated from God, with a carnal mind at enmity against Him, incapable of seeking or pleasing the divine without intervention (Romans 3:11–12; 8:7–8). This “fatal malady” of sin manifests in the “works of the flesh,” such as adultery, hatred, and idolatry (Galatians 5:19–21), leading to eternal separation unless addressed. The Holy Spirit serves as both prosecutor, convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), and physician, enabling repentance and transformation. Through divine grace embodied in Christ, believers receive acquittal (Romans 8:1), mortify sinful deeds (Colossians 3:5), and cultivate the “fruit of the Spirit”—love, joy, peace, and more (Galatians 5:22–23). This progressive journey demands daily surrender, empowered by the Spirit, to reflect Christlikeness and live as redeemed children of God. The article emphasizes that true restoration is not self-achieved but a supernatural recreation, underscoring humanity’s absolute dependence on God’s redemptive plan.

THE SPIRITUAL CRIME SCENE

The human heart is not neutral territory. It is a landscape etched with ancient conflicts, a place where cosmic forces contend. To observe humanity is often to witness the aftermath, the subtle and sometimes catastrophic evidence left behind at a spiritual crime scene. This scene isn’t marked by yellow tape or flashing lights, but by the quiet desperation in a searching soul, the inexplicable hostility towards divine things, the broken relationships, the addictions that bind, the pervasive sense of something fundamentally wrong. Contrary to optimistic philosophies that paint humanity as inherently good or merely misguided, the testimony of Scripture, echoed through prophetic insight, presents a starkly different picture. We are not born innocent bystanders eventually corrupted by external forces; the biblical diagnosis suggests we are born broken, arriving on the scene already implicated, estranged from our Creator until redeemed by a divine intervention. Our natural condition isn’t just flawed; it carries a fatal prognosis.

This condition is evidenced by the pervasive sinfulness described in Scripture. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23, KJV). This universal indictment underscores that every individual is implicated in this spiritual malady, incapable of achieving divine righteousness on their own. Furthermore, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9, KJV). This verse reinforces the depth of human corruption, highlighting the deceptive and wayward nature of the unregenerate heart. Sr. White affirms this reality: “The heart in its natural state is a habitation for evil thoughts and sinful desires, and only through Christ can it be purified” (The Desire of Ages, p. 172, 1898). Additionally, she writes, “Man’s nature is so perverted by sin that he cannot of himself desire or choose that which is good in the sight of God” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 296, 1900). These insights confirm the biblical portrayal of humanity’s inherent estrangement, necessitating divine intervention for restoration. This exploration delves into the evidence files concerning this condition—the inherent depravity of mankind as documented by the Apostle Paul and understood within the framework of the Great Controversy. It examines the nature of this estrangement, the divine summons issued despite our state, and the critical role of the Holy Spirit, who acts as both prosecutor and physician in Heaven’s intricate rescue mission. The journey will navigate the stark realities of the “works of the flesh” and illuminate the transformative path from this state of corruption toward the restoration of God’s image—Christlikeness. This path is not one of self-improvement but of supernatural recreation, powered by the Spirit and centered on the person of Jesus Christ. What is the default state of humanity that necessitates such a drastic remedy?

THE DEFAULT SETTING: DEPRAVED BY NATURE

By birthright, unrenewed humanity exists in a state of spiritual orphanhood, fundamentally alienated from the divine Parent. The Apostle Paul, under divine inspiration, leaves no room for ambiguity regarding this natural state. His assessment in Romans is piercing, almost clinical in its finality: “There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:11–12, KJV). This is not a description of particularly egregious sinners or specific degenerate cultures; it is a universal declaration about the inherent spiritual condition of mankind apart from divine grace. The language denotes totality: none understand spiritual truth correctly, none possess an innate desire to seek the true God, all have deviated from the divine path, all have become spiritually useless or corrupted, and none, based on their own nature, perform acts that meet God’s standard of absolute good. Humanity’s factory settings, its default mode, place it in a spiritual wasteland, barren of genuine desire for God.

This condition is not a superficial ailment but a deep-seated pathology. Sr. White identified it with stark clarity: “The world’s first and fatal malady is sin… The only remedy is the removal of sin” (Signs of the Times, April 14, 1898). Sin is not merely a series of poor choices or unfortunate mistakes; it is a “fatal malady,” a terminal illness infecting the very core of human existence. This perspective underscores the gravity of the situation – left untreated, this spiritual disease leads inevitably to eternal death. Consequently, the solution cannot be cosmetic or palliative; it must be radical, addressing the root cause. The “only remedy,” Sr. White asserts, is the complete “removal of sin,” a work only God can accomplish. Supporting this, Scripture declares, “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way” (Isaiah 53:6, KJV), emphasizing the universal deviation from God’s path. Additionally, “The carnal heart must be subdued by the grace of God, for it is at enmity with His law” (Psalm 51:5, KJV, contextually applied). Sr. White further states, “The natural heart is destitute of the principles of righteousness, and cannot love God until it is changed by divine grace” (Review and Herald, March 18, 1890). She also writes, “Without the transforming power of God, the heart remains a barren field, producing only thorns and thistles of sin” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 267, 1885). These insights highlight the necessity of divine intervention to address humanity’s inherent spiritual barrenness. Why this universal lack of spiritual inclination? The Fall inflicted deep wounds upon human nature. The faculties once attuned to God became distorted, the mind darkened, the will enslaved to lower passions, and the affections misplaced onto created things rather than the Creator. This inherited brokenness explains why humanity, left to its own devices, does not naturally gravitate towards God or His truth. It stands in stark contrast to secular philosophies that posit inherent human goodness or potential for self-perfection. Yet, into this bleak landscape, God issues a divine summons. How does Heaven address this universal condition of estrangement?

THE VERDICT: ENMITY AGAINST HEAVEN

What is the precise legal standing, the spiritual position, of the natural human mind before the throne of God? The Apostle Paul, continuing his profound analysis in Romans, delivers a verdict that is both startling and foundational to understanding the need for salvation. He writes, “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God” (Romans 8:7–8, KJV). The term “carnal mind” refers to the mindset, the disposition, the entire way of thinking dominated by the fallen, unregenerate human nature—the “flesh.” This mindset is not merely indifferent or passively resistant to God; it is characterized by active hostility, deep-seated opposition, a state of war against God Himself. The reason for this enmity is explicitly stated: the carnal mind “is not subject to the law of God.” It refuses to submit to God’s righteous standard, finding it restrictive, undesirable, or simply irrelevant to its self-centered pursuits.

Crucially, Paul adds a clause of profound significance: “neither indeed can be.” This is not merely a statement of unwillingness but of inherent inability. The carnal mind, by its very nature, lacks the capacity to genuinely submit to God’s law. The logical, inescapable conclusion follows: “So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” A mind at war with God, constitutionally incapable of obeying His law, cannot possibly perform actions or possess attitudes that are acceptable in His sight. This enmity is further evidenced in Scripture: “The imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth” (Genesis 8:21, KJV), indicating the early and persistent corruption of human thought. Additionally, “They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good” (Psalm 14:1, KJV), reinforcing the universal scope of this spiritual rebellion. Sr. White states, “Before union with Christ can be possible, the old man must be slain. Otherwise there can be no spiritual marriage without adultery” (Advent Review & Sabbath Herald, July 5, 1892). She further explains, “The natural man is at enmity with God, and this enmity can only be removed through a complete surrender to Christ” (Steps to Christ, p. 43, 1892). This inherent incompatibility underscores humanity’s absolute dependence on God’s grace and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. This enmity doesn’t always manifest as overt, blasphemous rebellion. Often, it takes subtler forms: a persistent resistance to yielding fully to God’s will, a prioritization of personal comfort or ambition over divine commands, a quiet dismissal of spiritual disciplines, a tendency to find God’s requirements burdensome or His promises unreal. The declaration “neither indeed can be” carries immense weight, demolishing any notion of self-salvation or achieving righteousness through human effort alone. What divine intervention bridges this chasm of hostility?

THE DIVINE INTERVENTION: PROSECUTOR AND PHYSICIAN

Faced with humanity’s universal condition of spiritual estrangement and active enmity, Heaven did not respond with abandonment but with a plan of divine intervention. Central to this plan is the work of the third person of the Godhead, the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself outlined the Spirit’s crucial mission before His ascension. He promised His disciples, “And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment” (John 16:8, KJV). The Holy Spirit acts as Heaven’s divine prosecutor, bringing the case against the world’s rebellion before the court of human conscience. This conviction operates on three fronts: of sin, because they believe not on Christ; of righteousness, because Christ ascended to the Father; and of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

This convicting work is diagnostic, designed to reveal the “fatal malady” of sin, not to cause despair, but to awaken the soul to its desperate need for healing. Scripture supports this role: “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you” (John 16:7, KJV), indicating the Spirit’s essential preparatory work. Additionally, “He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you” (John 16:14, KJV), showing the Spirit’s role in revealing Christ. Sr. White elaborates: “One office of the Holy Spirit is distinctly specified in the words of Christ: ‘When He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment.’ It is the Holy Spirit that convicts of sin” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 52, 1911). She further states, “The Spirit of God takes the truth and makes it effectual in the soul, leading to repentance and a desire for holiness” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 111, 1901). The Spirit’s influence is life-giving, but the sinner must respond to be brought to repentance. The experience of conviction varies, but its source is the same, encouraging prayerful dependence on the Spirit rather than human eloquence. The Spirit’s work is universal, extending beyond the visible church, providing immense encouragement for outreach. How does this enmity manifest in visible behaviors?

EXHIBIT A: THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

When the carnal mind, characterized by enmity against God, holds sway over a life, its internal disposition inevitably produces external results. The Apostle Paul provides a grim catalog: “Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like…” (Galatians 5:19-21a, KJV). These works demonstrate that the corruption of the flesh taints every aspect of human existence—personal morality, spiritual inclination, social relationships, and self-control.

Paul warns: “…of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God” (Galatians 5:21b, KJV). This underscores the eternal consequences of an unrepentant life. Scripture further illustrates this corruption: “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders” (Mark 7:21, KJV). Additionally, “The way of the wicked is an abomination unto the Lord” (Proverbs 15:9, KJV). Sr. White notes, “The works of the flesh are the natural fruit of a heart unsubmitted to God, revealing its true character” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 372, 1890). She also writes, “Every sinful act is a transgression of God’s law, and its fruit is death” (The Great Controversy, p. 493, 1888). The inclusion of “and such like” indicates that the catalog is representative, directing attention to the sinful nature itself, which must be dealt with through radical transformation. These works are the visible symptoms of the underlying disease of sin, confirming the diagnosis of humanity’s fatal malady. What path leads from this corruption to restoration?

THE PATH TO ACQUITTAL AND TRANSFORMATION

Given the bleak diagnosis, is there a way out? Scripture reveals a path opened by divine grace. Paul writes, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men” (Titus 2:11, KJV). Grace, embodied in Jesus Christ, is an active, instructive force, teaching us to live soberly, righteously, and godly. Christ invites, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28, KJV). This call offers relief through relationship with Christ. Supporting this, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8, KJV). Additionally, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord” (Isaiah 1:18, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “God takes men as they are, with the human elements in their character, and trains them for His service” (Gospel Workers, p. 285, 1915). She adds, “Through the grace of Christ, the soul is brought into harmony with the divine will” (Steps to Christ, p. 47, 1892). Once a person responds, their legal standing changes: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1, KJV). Victory over the flesh is achieved “through the Spirit” (Romans 8:13, KJV). Sr. White describes, “It is the Spirit that causes to shine into darkened minds the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness” (Gospel Workers, pp. 286–287, 1915). She further states, “The Holy Spirit works in the heart, renewing the faculties and creating a new life in Christ” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 55, 1904). This is the journey from bondage to freedom, from enmity to adoption, from corruption to Christlikeness. How does the believer actively participate in this transformation?

MORTIFYING THE OLD, EMBRACING THE NEW

The path from acquittal to transformation demands active participation, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Paul instructs, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above” (Colossians 3:1, KJV). Based on this new identity, he commands, “Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry” (Colossians 3:5, KJV). Believers must also “put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:10, KJV). In Philippians, Paul exhorts, “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12, KJV), enabled by “God which worketh in you” (Philippians 2:13, KJV). Scripture supports this: “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil” (Ephesians 6:11, KJV). Additionally, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10, KJV). Sr. White writes, “The Christian must put forth earnest effort to overcome the tendencies of the natural heart” (Messages to Young People, p. 151, 1930). She also states, “Through cooperation with the Holy Spirit, the believer is enabled to crucify the flesh and live unto God” (The Sanctified Life, p. 81, 1889). This synergy involves active engagement empowered by divine grace. Sanctification flows from identity; action is empowered by position. What are the visible signs of this new life?

EVIDENCE OF NEW LIFE: THE FRUITS OF THE SPIRIT

The transformation initiated by grace yields the “fruit of the Spirit”: “love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22-23, KJV). These qualities form a unified whole, reflecting Christ’s character. They are not primarily the result of human effort but the organic product of the Spirit’s presence. Scripture affirms, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine” (John 15:4, KJV). Additionally, “Thou hast given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up” (Psalm 18:35, KJV). Sr. White connects, “The Spirit that reveals, also works in him the fruits of righteousness” (Gospel Workers, pp. 287–288, 1915). She further states, “The fruit of the Spirit is the evidence of a life surrendered to God, reflecting His character” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 67, 1900). These virtues stand in direct opposition to the works of the flesh, fulfilling the law’s intent through a transformed heart. The fruit of the Spirit is the visible credential of genuine transformation. How should this transformation shape daily conduct?

LIVING THE VERDICT: CONDUCT BEFITTING THE REDEEMED

Having been acquitted and indwelt by the Spirit, believers are called to live as “the elect of God, holy and beloved” (Colossians 3:12, KJV), putting on “bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering” (Colossians 3:12, KJV). They must forbear and forgive one another, with love as the “bond of perfectness” (Colossians 3:14, KJV). The peace of God should rule their hearts, and the word of Christ dwell richly in them (Colossians 3:15-16, KJV). All is to be done “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Colossians 3:17, KJV). Scripture supports this: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father” (Matthew 5:16, KJV). Additionally, “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another” (Ephesians 4:32, KJV). Sr. White illustrates, “The meekness of Christ, manifested in the home, will make the inmates happy” (Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 17, 1896). She also writes, “The life of the Christian is to be a living testimony of the power of divine grace” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7, p. 92, 1902). These virtues build trust and demonstrate the Gospel’s reality. What is the ongoing journey of transformation?

THE ONGOING JOURNEY

The journey through these “Flesh Files” has traced a path from diagnosis to deliverance, from condemnation to transformation. The investigation began by confronting the stark reality of humanity’s natural condition: not merely flawed, but spiritually dead, inherently estranged from God, characterized by a “carnal mind” that is “enmity against God” and incapable, on its own, of pleasing Him (Romans 3:11-12; Romans 8:7-8). This internal state manifests in the “works of the flesh” (Galatians 5:19-21). Yet, divine intervention breaks through with a command to repent (Acts 17:30), enabled by the Holy Spirit’s conviction (John 16:8-11). Grace appears in Christ (Titus 2:11), who invites all to find rest (Matthew 11:28-30), bringing acquittal (Romans 8:1).

The believer is called to “mortify” the deeds of the body (Romans 8:13), “put on the new man” (Colossians 3:10), and “work out” salvation (Philippians 2:12-13). The “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23) evidences this transformation, expressed in conduct befitting the redeemed (Colossians 3:17). Scripture summarizes, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2, KJV). Additionally, “He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “The work of transformation is progressive, requiring daily surrender to the Spirit” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 560, 1911). She also writes, “Through the power of Christ, men and women may become partakers of the divine nature” (The Desire of Ages, p. 123, 1898). The core message remains: the carnal mind must be reckoned dead, its influences overcome daily through the Spirit. The journey is ongoing, requiring daily surrender and reliance on the Spirit, until believers fully reflect Christ’s image.

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