In Christian theology, the concept of mortifying carnal affections is rooted in the call to live a life that is pleasing to God, characterized by holiness and separation from sin. Carnal affections refer to the desires and inclinations of the flesh that are contrary to the Spirit and the will of God. These affections are often associated with sinful behaviors and attitudes that arise from human nature in its fallen state.

The Apostle Paul addresses the need to mortify carnal affections in several of his epistles. In Romans 8:13 , he writes, "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." Here, Paul emphasizes the necessity of putting to death the deeds of the body, which are driven by carnal desires, through the power of the Holy Spirit. This process of mortification is essential for spiritual life and growth.

In Colossians 3:5 , Paul further instructs believers, "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry." This passage highlights specific carnal affections that must be mortified, identifying them as elements of the earthly nature that are incompatible with the new life in Christ. The call to mortify these affections is a call to reject idolatry and to live in accordance with the values of the Kingdom of God.

The struggle against carnal affections is a recurring theme in the New Testament, as believers are encouraged to live by the Spirit and not gratify the desires of the flesh. Galatians 5:16-17 states, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are opposed to each other, so that you do not do what you want." This passage underscores the internal conflict between the flesh and the Spirit, and the necessity of choosing to walk by the Spirit to overcome carnal affections.

The mortification of carnal affections is not merely a matter of personal discipline but is deeply connected to the believer's identity in Christ. In Romans 6:6 , Paul reminds believers, "We know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." The crucifixion of the old self with Christ signifies the breaking of sin's power, enabling believers to live in freedom from carnal affections.

The process of mortification is ongoing and requires the believer's active participation in the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit. It involves a conscious decision to reject sinful desires and to cultivate virtues that reflect the character of Christ. Ephesians 4:22-24 exhorts believers, "You were taught with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

In summary, the mortification of carnal affections is a vital aspect of the Christian life, calling believers to live in accordance with their new identity in Christ and to pursue holiness through the power of the Holy Spirit. This transformative process is essential for spiritual maturity and reflects the believer's commitment to living a life that honors God.Romans 8:13
For if you live after the flesh, you shall die: but if you through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, you shall live.
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Romans 13:14
But put you on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof.
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1 Corinthians 9:27
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
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Colossians 3:5
Mortify therefore your members which are on the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
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1 Thessalonians 4:5
Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:
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"Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. "
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Letter xviii. Marriage.
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The Impotence of the Law.
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