THE UPGRADED SOUL by Kay Daniels

The concepts of a "living soul" and a "quickening spirit" come from the Bible and have rich theological significance, particularly in understanding the nature of humanity and the transformative work of Christ.

Living Soul

The term "living soul" appears in the creation account in Genesis. It describes the state of man at the moment of creation when God breathed life into Adam:

• Genesis 2:7 (KJV): “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and man became a living soul.”

This emphasizes that humanity's life originates from God's breath, making man a living, conscious being with physical, emotional, and intellectual capacities. As a "living soul," man is distinct from other creatures because he carries the image of God within him (Genesis 1:27).

In this state, however, humanity is still limited to the natural, earthly existence, subject to death and decay as a result of sin. The "living soul" represents our natural, mortal state as created beings.

Quickening Spirit

The phrase "quickening spirit" is used by the Apostle Paul about Jesus Christ in His resurrection. In contrast to the "living soul," which represents our natural, earthly life, the "quickening spirit" refers to a life-giving, spiritual transformation that Jesus brings:

• 1 Corinthians 15:45 (KJV): “And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.”

Here, Paul contrasts Adam, the first man, with Jesus, who is referred to as the "last Adam." Adam became a "living soul" by God’s breath, but he and his descendants were subject to sin and death. Jesus, through His resurrection, became a "quickening spirit" — that is, a life-giving spirit who grants eternal life to those who believe in Him.

Where the "living soul" describes the mortal life of humanity, the "quickening spirit" represents the transformative power of Christ's resurrection, which brings spiritual life, renewal, and eternal existence beyond physical death. Christ, as the "quickening spirit," offers new life through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Key Differences:

• Living Soul: Refers to man's natural, earthly life. Adam was a "living soul," capable of physical life but subject to sin and death.
• Quickening Spirit: Refers to Christ's resurrected, life-giving power. Jesus, as the "quickening spirit," transforms believers by giving them eternal life and spiritual renewal through His Spirit.

Spiritual Application

For believers, this transformation from "living soul" to "quickening spirit" is a picture of the spiritual journey. We are born into this world as "living souls," with earthly, natural desires. But through faith in Christ, we receive the Holy Spirit, who gives us new, spiritual life and transforms us into the image of Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18).

• Romans 8:11: “But if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you.”

Through this life-giving spirit, believers can experience spiritual vitality, renewal, and a foretaste of the eternal life to come. We are no longer limited by our earthly existence but can live with the power and authority that Christ gives through His Spirit.

Conclusion

The transition from "living soul" to "quickening spirit" marks the difference between our natural, mortal existence and the supernatural, eternal life offered through Jesus Christ. In Christ, we are transformed, not just to live for this life, but to experience spiritual renewal and the fullness of eternal life with God.