The Mortification of Sin
by John Owen
Read if you're interested in theology, spiritual growth, or books for adult.
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9.8
VerdictRecommended
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Book Summary
Owen meticulously unpacks the biblical command to put sin to death, arguing that it is the lifelong and essential duty of every believer, empowered by the Holy Spirit. He provides profound theological grounding and practical directives for engaging in this spiritual battle against indwelling sin.
What it does well
- — Deeply rooted in Scripture, with extensive exposition and application of biblical texts, particularly Romans 8:13.
- — Emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the process of mortification, preventing legalism.
- — Provides a comprehensive and systematic understanding of indwelling sin and its deceitful nature.
Watch for
- — The dense, 17th-century prose can be challenging for modern readers, requiring patience and careful reading.
- — Some readers might misinterpret the intense focus on sin as promoting morbid introspection or a lack of emphasis on God's grace, if not read with a balanced understanding of Owen's full theology.
- — The relentless focus on sin without regular interjection of grace and Christ's finished work could be discouraging for those easily prone to spiritual despair, though Owen does ultimately ground mortification in grace.
Verdict
Highly recommended for mature believers, pastors, and serious theological students who desire a profound and practical understanding of sanctification and the ongoing battle against sin. It is best approached with prayer and a willingness to wrestle with dense theological truths, perhaps alongside a modern commentary or study guide.
ALIGNMYREAD RECOMMENDATION
“Highly recommended for mature believers, pastors, and serious theological students who desire a profound and practical understanding of sanctification and the ongoing battle against sin. It is best approached with prayer and a willingness to wrestle with dense theological truths, perhaps alongside a modern commentary or study guide.”
Biblical alignment
- —Deeply rooted in Scripture, with extensive exposition and application of biblical texts, particularly Romans 8:13.
- —Emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the process of mortification, preventing legalism.
- —Provides a comprehensive and systematic understanding of indwelling sin and its deceitful nature.
- —Offers practical, though challenging, guidance for identifying, understanding, and actively resisting sin.
- —Highlights the necessity of active faith, self-examination, and humility in the fight against sin.
- —Challenges shallow understandings of sanctification, promoting a robust and realistic view of spiritual growth.
Areas of concern
- —The dense, 17th-century prose can be challenging for modern readers, requiring patience and careful reading.
- —Some readers might misinterpret the intense focus on sin as promoting morbid introspection or a lack of emphasis on God's grace, if not read with a balanced understanding of Owen's full theology.
- —The relentless focus on sin without regular interjection of grace and Christ's finished work could be discouraging for those easily prone to spiritual despair, though Owen does ultimately ground mortification in grace.
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