Mortification of sin - Owen - II - Chapters 3, 4, 5 & 6

Required reading
Mortification of sin by John Owen (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Chapters 3, 4, 5 and 6.

My summary
In Chapter 3 Owen develops the second general principle of the means of mortification which is that the Spirit alone is sufficient for this work.  The Spirit mortifies sin by:
(i) causing our hearts to abound in grace and the fruits that are contrary to the flesh;
(ii) a real physical efficiency on the root and habit of sin;
(iii) bringing the cross of Christ into the heart of a sinner by faith.

In Chapter 4 Owen teaches us his last principle about the usefulness of mortification, that the life, vigour and comfort of our spiritual life depend much on our mortification of sin.  Unmortified sin:
(i) weakens the soul and deprives it of its vigour;
(ii) darkens the soul.

Then in Chapter 5 and 6, Owen defines mortification of sin.  In Chapter 5 we see that mortification of sin is NOT:
(i) an utterly killing of sin;
(ii) a dissimulation of a sin;
(iii) an improvement of a quiet sedate nature;
(iv) a diversion of sin;
(v) an occasional conquest of sins.

In Chapter 6 we see that mortification of sin is:
(i) a habitual weakening of sin;
(ii) a constant fighting and contending against sin;
(iii) frequent success against sin.

What grabbed me
Another great reading.  This is fast turning into one of my favourite books.

Excellent teaching on what it means to crucify sin: 'As a man nailed to the cross; he first struggles, and strives, and cries out with great strength and might, but, as his blood and spirits waste, his strivings are faint and seldom, his cries low and hoarse, scarce to be heard ; when a man first sets on a lust or distemper, to deal with it, it struggles with great violence to break loose ; it cries with earnestness and impatience to be satisfied and relieved; but when by mortification the blood and spirits of it are let out, it moves seldom and faintly, cries sparingly, and is scarce heard in the heart; it may have sometimes a dying pang, that makes an appearance of great vigour and strength, but it is quickly over, especially if it be kept from considerable success. This the apostle describes, as in the whole chapter, so especially, Rom. vi. 6.'

Please, O God, may you help me crucify the sin my life.

Next week's reading
Read Chapters 7, 8 & 9.

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.