Chapters 5 & 6 deal with the question of "What is Mortification?" Though we looked at several of Owen's points on this issue, here are a couple that stand out:
Killing sin is not simply diverting sin:
“A sin is not mortified when it is only diverted…A man may be sensible of a lust, set himself against the eruptions of it, take care that it shall not break forth as it has done, but in the meantime suffer the same corrupted habit to vent itself some other way; as he who heals and skins a running sore thinks himself cured, but in the meantime the flesh festers by the corruption of the same bodily fluid and breaks out in another place.” (Owen, p. 71)
But rather, it’s a constant fighting and contending against sin:
“Such a one never thinks his lust is dead because it is quiet, but labors still to give it new wounds, new blows every day.” (Owen, p. 77)
Colossians 3:5, Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.
Matthew 16:18, (Jesus speaking) “And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”
Galatians 5:24, And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
Chris
Sunday, May 4, 2008
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2 comments:
Eric and I are really enjoying the series. We were talking last week about how we need to be more deliberate about even recognizing the sin in our lives (so that we, through the power of the holy spirit, can kill it)- rather than just finding good things to do for others. We tend to avoid self-reflection. So this has been great for us!
Thanks!
Cool Leah! I'm glad it's been helpful for you guys!
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