Defining Spiritual Experience

The word Spiritual (pneumatikos) is formed from pneuma and conveys the sense of belonging to the 'spiritual realm' and embodying or manifesting the "Spirit". Careful study of Scripture indicates that the greatest use of this term is found in the writings of Paul. 

As an adjective, it can simply mean a 'spiritual' something for example as used in Rom 1:11, or as a noun, it can refer to a 'spiritual' person one who is effected by the "Spirit", for example see 1 Cor 2:13, 15; 3:1; 14:7. In a sterile sense, it can refer to 'spiritual things' see Rom 15:27 or 1 Cor 9:11.

In Scripture, the term 'experience' is most often linked to the word Wisdom. It is connected to practical skill and intellectual wisdom. It relates to both knowledge and skill acquired over time, occasionally this knowledge or skill is linked to an event which leaves an impression often expressed as a felt emotion. 

To bring these two terms together in a biblical sense one can define 'spiritual experience' as an effect of God the Holy Spirit's impact on the life and soul of the person or object of His personal focus. Therefore, a spiritual person is one who is effected by the Holy Spirit, the outcome of which is practical skill and intellectual wisdom imparted through spiritual gifts, and prolonged time spent in the presence of the God the Holy Spirit. I suggest a careful and prayerful reading of 1 Cor 2:1-16 will offer much enlightenment. (Gal 5:25)