This book is a collection of sermons preached in 1656 by the Puritan theologian John Owen. The book concerns the subject of mortifying (or killing) sin in our lives. Owen deals with the subject of mortifying sin on such a deeply theological, yet very personal, level that one is left with strong conviction afterwards for being lackadaisical towards one's own willful faults and weaknesses and allowing sin to prevail on our lives. Owen also goes through the biblical process of how to mortify sin, and just as importantly how not to mortify sin. For example, Owen demonstrates that the purpose of mortifying sin is just as relevant to the success of mortification as the actual act of killing sin, as Owen stated, "Mortification of sin from a self-strength, carried on by ways of self-invention, unto the end of a self-righteousness, is the soul and substance of all false religion in the world."
The book concludes with the most important aspect of sin-mortification as being wholly dependent upon trust and reliance on the crucifixion of Jesus. Without recognizing ourselves as partakers in His "baptism of death" we won't be partakers of Jesus' victory over sin for us. As Owen wrote, "Without the death of Christ, there is no death of sin." And only by relying completely on the indwelling presence and power of the Holy Spirit can we obtain a reliance upon the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross, as Owen concludes, "The Spirit alone reveals unto us the fullness of Christ for our relief: which is the consideration that stays the heart from false ways, and from despairing despondency. The Spirit alone establishes the heart in expectation of relief from Christ: which is the great sovereign means of mortification."
*Note: John Owen has been called the "Prince of the Puritans." Owen earned this title because of all the Puritans, he wrote on the most profoundly rich and highest theological level. Because of this fact, I found myself needing to read multiple pages of Owen's book twice-over in order to fully grasp and absorb the important truths he was attempting to convey. Therefore, much mental effort and focus is required to read through this book (and others) from John Owen. But the benefits of such effort will grant tremendous blessings in a Christian's life as they wage war against their greatest mortal enemy; their own sins.
"Set faith at work on Christ for the killing of thy sin. His blood is the great sovereign remedy for sin-sick souls. Live in this, and thou wilt die a conqueror. Yea, thou wilt, through the good providence of God, live to see thy lust dead at thy feet."
- John Owen, The Mortification of Sin, Chapter 14, pg 162
