Mortification of sin by John Owens

Romans 8:13

For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.

Famous quote on killing sin

Be killing sin, or it will be killing you

Thesis

Kill sin’s power day by day,

The Spirit leads, I must obey.

Not sinless yet, but sin made weak—

That Christ in me may freely speak.

Practical applications: self examination

I trace its fruit to the root—

by how long it lasts,

how strong it stands,

and how it resists God’s hand.

Then I feel its weight—

how it grieves Christ,

and steals my peace.

Practical applications: active resistance

Fight sin early, don’t delay;

Watch the paths that lead its way.

Grow the gifts that drives it out—

Through God’s Word, remove all doubt.

Practical applications: dependence, and obedience

Surrender all to Christ your Lord,

Confess with truth, no self-made word.

Seek the Spirit’s fire and cross,

Not law’s demand, but grace’s cost.

Practical applications: outcomes

Expect increased vigor, comfort, usefulness, and freedom—transforming struggles into deeper communion and joy.