Crucifying the Flesh

Occasionally I come across a person who thinks he has to crucify the sin nature (flesh), or I hear of preachers who preach it. The problem with the teaching is that it cannot be done. It cannot be done because it has already been done.

“We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4)

That is past tense.

“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” (Galatians 2:20)

That is past tense.

“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.” (Galatians 5:24)

We cannot put to death something that is already dead.

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