Quote:
Originally Posted by Evangelical
Technically this idea was not invented by Lee, it is prevalent in Christianity. If we want to pinpoint its origins, it probably comes from Calvinism, the idea that man in himself is unable to do anything, only by God's grace and enabling. Where God's service is concerned there si biblical support - Ephesians 3:7 shows that Paul ministered not according to his natural ability but the gift of God. Likewise, Peter did not minister effectively until he received the gift of the Spirit at pentecost.
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The word "natural" probably comes from the KJV 1 Cor 2:14, where those with the Spirit and those without the Spirit are contrasted. The KJV translates "psuche" as "natural." But it's really not a good translation. This opened the door to a whole view that Lee may not have invented but certainly ran with. Besides this poor translation, there is no other place in the NT where something "natural" is deemed bad. It's just not a biblical concept.
We are people of the Spirit and should walk according to the Spirit. If we do that, we don't have to and shouldn't be checking whether some expression of human goodness is "natural." This just leads to an attitude where we are constantly suspicious of our behavior and that of others. Our attitude should be positive. Are we walking in God's presence? If so we don't need to be going around asking whether this feeling of love is "natural" or is that smile natural or if I throw the football with my son is that natural. The issue is not football or smiles or laughter, it's being in fellowship with God.
Here's a true story. Back in the early days of the church in Austin, an elder came home from a meeting. His wife had stayed home because she was sick. She was washing the dishes. He went upstairs to their bedroom and didn't help her. Later, when their marriage fell apart she asked him, "Why didn't you help me with the dishes that night I was sick?" He replied, "I didn't want to act in my natural love."
Really? Are you kidding me? Your wife is sick and you are suspicious of your instinct to help her with the dishes? That's the kind of fruit this "natural man" nonsense produces.
By the way, the couple divorced.