Friday, August 8, 2025
Alex Buabeng-Korsah
TOPIC: PUT TO DEATH WHAT IS EARTHLY
THEME SCRIPTURE: “Put to death, therefore, what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry.” — Colossians 3:5 (ESV)
PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:
- What is involved in putting to death what is earthly?
In light of our new identity in Christ and the promise of future glory, Paul turns our attention to a sobering but necessary command: “Put to death” the sinful elements that remain in us. Why such strong language? Because sin, though forgiven at the cross, still seeks to sabotage the soul and stifle our growth. It must not be coddled— it must be crucified.
John Owen warned, “Be killing sin or it will be killing you.” This is the daily work of the believer: not merely avoiding sin, but decisively dealing with it, by the Spirit, at its root.
Notice the list Paul gives—these sins all begin in the heart and mind. Impurity, lust, greed—these are not just external acts but internal attitudes. Greed, for instance, is labeled “idolatry” because it puts things in the place of God. Sin often seems subtle at first, even justifiable. But left unchecked, it grows.
As the children of righteousness, we are to shine as light in a dark world. The world can attest to the fact that we are the children of our Father if we put to death our old man.
Putting sin to death isn’t about moral perfection in our own strength. It’s about leaning on the power of the risen Christ, applying His victory daily. We are empowered by the Spirit to say no to the old life and yes to the life of Christ. Yeah, we are to turn away from the base life of pride, lust, and idolatry to serve the living God.
Augustine once prayed, “Lord, command what You will, and give what You command.” God commands us to kill sin, and graciously supplies all we need to obey.
Precious one, come up to the higher life in Christ Jesus because you have been raised up with Him.
God bless you more.
FURTHER READING – Colossians 3
Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so.
QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD:
- Are there sinful patterns you’ve tolerated instead of confronting?
- What would “putting to death” look like practically for you today?
PRAYER
Holy Spirit, help me see sin for what it is—an enemy of my soul and a rival to Your rule in my life. Give me courage to confront it, wisdom to flee from it, and grace to overcome it through Christ. I choose to walk in the newness of life You’ve provided. In Jesus’ precious name, Amen.
One-Year Bible Reading Plan
Psalm 60, Hebrews 13, 1 Chronicles 27
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