21 “The Flesh Lusts Against the Spirit “

✨ Lesson 21: “The Flesh Lusts Against the Spirit”
Understanding the Ongoing Battle Within

“Character development is the most important work ever entrusted to human beings.”
— Education, p. 225

Welcome to Lesson 21 in your From Glory to Glory journey. This session dives into a sobering yet empowering truth: even after conversion, the battle for the heart is far from over. Pastor Stephen Wallace brings us face to face with the reality that while we may receive a new heart at the foot of the cross, the old nature—the flesh—still remains. It no longer reigns, but it does relentlessly resist.

This study explores the crucial “opposition factor” every believer must contend with: the ongoing conflict between the flesh and the Spirit. Even as born-again Christians, we do not walk through life unopposed. “The flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh” (Gal. 5:17). These two natures are contrary and constantly at war. But praise God, though we still have the flesh, we no longer have to fulfill its desires.

Through Scripture and inspired insight, this lesson helps us understand the origin, nature, and daily influence of our selfish tendencies. We learn that these deeply ingrained “fleshly lusts” go beyond outward sins; they include every unlawful desire of the selfish heart—from pride and ambition to the craving for praise and power. The struggle is real, personal, and lifelong—but so is the grace that empowers us to overcome.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why even a new heart still needs diligent governance

  • How the “old man” remains, and why he must be crucified daily

  • The real meaning of “the flesh” and how it differs from the physical body

  • The role of heredity and habit in shaping our opposition factor

  • Why our greatest enemy isn’t Satan—it’s self

  • How to engage in this lifelong battle with hope, vigilance, and power

✍️ What to Expect in This Session:

Part 1
✅ Watch or read the lesson
✅ Take a 5-question quiz
Reflect: Am I aware of the daily war within? What are my old habits and hereditary tendencies that war against my soul?

Part 2
✅ Second quiz
✅ Read stories of real-life victory over self
Share: What part of the lesson gave you insight or encouragement in your own struggle with the flesh?

Before You Begin:
Pause and pray for discernment. Ask God to help you recognize the voice of the flesh—and give you strength to walk in the Spirit.

“From the cross to the crown, there is earnest work to be done. There is wrestling with inbred sin; there is warfare against outward wrong.” — RH, Nov. 29, 1887

This battle is lifelong, but so is God’s power.
Don’t give the flesh the throne—give it to Christ.
Let the victory begin.