As some debate can one be saved and still sin, Ray Ortlund posts this simple reminder of our real focus from John Owen based on Rom 8.13, "But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live." I remain amazed at the number of believers coming to the defense of others' desire to sin.
“Men look upon it as an easy task and as that which will be carried on with a little diligence and ordinary attendance. But do we think it is for nothing that the Holy Spirit expresses the duty of opposing sin and weakening its power by mortification, killing or putting to death? Is there not something special in this, beyond any other act or duty of our lives? . . . Everything will do its utmost to preserve its life and being. So will sin too; and if it is not constantly pursued with diligence and holy violence, it will escape our assaults. Let no man think he can kill sin with few, easy or gentle strokes.”
- John Owen, Works (Edinburgh, 1981 reprint), III:546.
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