6- SAN PABLO: COMBATIR EL BUEN COMBATE. "NOSOTROS" Palestra ascética para hombres. Antonio Gómez Mir

San Pablo and the Spiritual Combat

In this section, the discussion revolves around the concept of spiritual combat as introduced by Saint Paul. The focus is on the idea of Christian combat, spiritual struggle, and the role of suffering in shaping the Christian life.

San Pablo's View on Spiritual Combat

• Saint Paul introduces the idea of spiritual combat as a fundamental aspect of Christian life, drawing from sacred scripture and tradition.

• The Old Testament portrays suffering and pain as consequences of original sin. Initially seen as a mystery causing rebellion against God, suffering gradually reveals its purifying, educational, and redemptive value.

• Prophets and sages in the Old Testament invite reflection on the meaning of suffering, highlighting its educative and purifying aspects.

The Value of Suffering in Scripture

• Scriptures reveal the purifying value of pain (Jeremiah), educational value (Proverbs), expiatory value (Isaiah), intercessory and redemptive value (Isaiah's servant figure).

• Suffering progressively unveils its significance: purification, education, revelation of God's will in our lives, expiation of sin, intercession, redemption.

Mortification and Spiritual Growth

• Embracing mortification is essential for spiritual growth; it involves accepting suffering as part of following Christ crucified.

• The foundation of Christian mortification lies in understanding the theology of the cross - embracing Christ crucified despite it being scandalous or foolish to some.

Theology of Cross According to Saint Paul

• Saint Paul emphasizes glorying only in Christ's cross as central to Christian spirituality - dying to self to live with Christ.

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In this section, the speaker discusses the Christian life and spiritual combat as outlined by Saint Paul.

The Program of Christian Life

• The speaker emphasizes that the spirit of God residing in individuals will give life to their mortal bodies, following the resurrection of Christ.

• Living according to the flesh leads to death, but through the spirit, one can overcome sinful deeds and live a fulfilling life.

• Contrasting the desires of the flesh with those of the spirit, highlighting the ongoing spiritual battle within individuals.

• Describing the works of the flesh as opposed to the fruits of the spirit, emphasizing moral struggles faced daily.

The Spiritual Combat

• Saint Paul's delineation between works of the flesh and fruits of the spirit serves as a guide for navigating spiritual battles.

• Discussing two key aspects: internal struggle between God's spirit and human nature, and transformation from outer to inner self.

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This segment delves into personal struggles against sin and highlights Saint Paul's reflections on human nature.

Inner Conflict

• Saint Paul acknowledges an internal conflict where despite desiring good, individuals often succumb to evil impulses.

• Reflecting on how sin dwelling within humans hinders their ability to do good consistently, leading to a perpetual struggle for righteousness.

Transformation Process

• Describing a constant battle between adhering to God's law internally versus succumbing to sinful tendencies externally.

• Encouraging believers to embrace their new identity in Christ by seeking heavenly virtues while shedding old sinful behaviors.

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This part focuses on mortifying vices and cultivating virtues as integral components of spiritual growth.

Shedding Old Self

• Urging individuals to discard former sinful practices and adopt a new way of living aligned with Christ's teachings.

Building Virtues

• Emphasizing not only eliminating vices but also actively developing virtues as crucial elements in spiritual development.

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Exploring how baptism initiates a journey towards spiritual renewal through daily actions reflecting newfound beliefs.

Baptismal Renewal

• Highlighting that baptism imparts new life but necessitates continual renewal through aligning actions with faith daily.

Striving for Virtue

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In this section, the speaker discusses the use of athletic metaphors in the Bible, particularly focusing on the concept of running a race as a metaphor for the Christian life.

The Use of Athletic Metaphors in the Bible

• The speaker highlights how Paul, being both Jewish and Roman with a Greek education, uses athletic imagery to convey spiritual truths.

• Paul's reference to athletes training for a prize emphasizes the idea of self-discipline and sacrifice for an eternal reward.

• The historical context of ancient Greek stadium races is explored, linking it to Paul's use of athletic language in his writings.

• Paul is portrayed as an athlete in sacred scriptures, emphasizing the idea of striving towards mastery over oneself through spiritual discipline.

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This section delves into how Paul views his ministry as a race or competition where he must run well and not in vain.

Ministry as a Race

• Paul sees his ministry as akin to running a race, emphasizing the importance of not running in vain but with purpose and dedication.

• References from Hebrews highlight the endurance required in facing life's challenges with strength and determination.

• Drawing from Galatians, Paul encourages believers to stay focused on their spiritual journey despite obstacles that may arise.

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This section explores Paul's analogy of the Christian life as a race towards spiritual growth and perfection.

The Christian Life as a Race

• Emphasizing continuous growth, Paul expresses humility by acknowledging he has not yet reached perfection but strives towards it.

• The theme of combat is introduced, symbolizing perseverance and faithfulness until reaching one's ultimate goal.

Desafío Espiritual: Combate y Armas

The speaker delves into the theme of spiritual combat and the necessary weapons for this battle, drawing insights from Ephesians 6:12.

Spiritual Combat and Weapons

• The struggle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of evil in high places.

• Instructions on equipping oneself with truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the word of God for spiritual warfare.

• Emphasis on preparing for battle against principalities and powers with spiritual armor.

• Encouragement to engage in the good fight of faith to defend the Church and families.

• Exhortation to fight the good fight of faith, receive grace, strengthen oneself with Christ's help, and embrace the spiritual battle.

Perseverance in Spiritual Warfare

The speaker continues to emphasize perseverance in spiritual warfare by drawing parallels between a soldier's life and Christian commitment.

Perseverance in Battle

• Comparison between a soldier's dedication to duty without worldly distractions and an athlete's adherence to strict rules for victory.

• Focus on maintaining a mindset of spiritual combat rather than worldly pursuits like business affairs or complacency.