Physical & Spiritual

Physical refers to measurable matter and energy— things we can observe, weigh, measure, and investigate through physical science. We can measure our height, weight, movement, temperature, and countless other physical properties.

Spiritual refers to realities that are not directly measurable by physical scientific methods. We cannot measure God or the spiritual realm with physical instruments because they are not physical objects.

Paul's Celestial Distinction

Paul distinguishes between terrestrial and celestial bodies: “There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial” (1 Corinthians 15:40). He then applies this distinction to the resurrection, saying that what is sown a natural body is raised a spiritual body (1 Corinthians 15:44).

He also says that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God” (1 Corinthians 15:50). Paul's language therefore describes a transformation from the natural, terrestrial condition to a celestial, spiritual mode of existence.