Topical Encyclopedia In the Christian theological framework, the concept of "affections" refers to the inclinations and desires of the heart and mind. Carnal affections, in particular, are those desires that are rooted in the sinful nature of humanity, often leading individuals away from the will of God. The crucifixion of these carnal affections is a transformative process that occurs in the lives of believers, as they are sanctified and conformed to the image of Christ.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of carnal affections in several of his epistles, emphasizing the necessity for believers to put to death the sinful desires of the flesh. In Galatians 5:24, Paul writes, "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires" . This verse underscores the believer's active role in rejecting and overcoming sinful inclinations through the power of the Holy Spirit. In Romans 6:6, Paul further elaborates on this concept: "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" . Here, the crucifixion of carnal affections is linked to the believer's union with Christ in His death and resurrection, signifying a break from the dominion of sin. The Process of Crucifixion The crucifixion of carnal affections is not an instantaneous event but a lifelong process of sanctification. It involves a conscious and continual effort to align one's desires with the will of God. In Colossians 3:5, Paul exhorts believers to "Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires, and greed, which is idolatry" . This directive highlights the active role of the believer in identifying and mortifying sinful desires. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, empowering believers to overcome the flesh. In Galatians 5:16, Paul advises, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" . The indwelling presence of the Spirit enables believers to resist temptation and cultivate godly affections. The Fruit of Crucified Affections As carnal affections are crucified, the believer's life begins to reflect the character of Christ. The fruit of the Spirit, as described in Galatians 5:22-23, becomes increasingly evident: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" . These virtues stand in stark contrast to the works of the flesh and serve as evidence of the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. The crucifixion of carnal affections also leads to a deeper communion with God. In Romans 8:5-6, Paul contrasts those who live according to the flesh with those who live according to the Spirit: "Those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace" . This passage highlights the peace and spiritual vitality that result from a life surrendered to the Spirit. Practical Implications The crucifixion of carnal affections calls for vigilance and intentionality in the believer's daily walk. It requires a commitment to spiritual disciplines such as prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. In Philippians 4:8, Paul provides guidance on cultivating godly affections: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things" . By focusing on what is virtuous and praiseworthy, believers can nurture affections that honor God. The community of faith also plays a vital role in supporting believers as they seek to crucify carnal affections. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together" . Through mutual encouragement and accountability, the body of Christ helps individuals persevere in their pursuit of holiness. Nave's Topical Index Romans 6:6Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that from now on we should not serve sin. Nave's Topical Index Galatians 5:24 Library The Subtraction Process "But the End of all Things is at Hand, be Ye Therefore Sober and ... Evans -- the Fall and Recovery of Man The Necessity of Diligently Seeking the Saints' Rest. What is Sanctification? The Introduction to the Work, with Some Account of the Nature of ... The Law Established through Faith On Sin in Believers The Saints' Privilege and Profit; The First Sermon in the Tabernacle Resources What is adoration in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a godly woman? | GotQuestions.org What is the meaning of Jeremiah 29:11? | GotQuestions.org Affections: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Affections of Saints, Supremely Set on God Affections of the Wicked, are Unnatural and Perverted Affections of the Wicked, not Sincerely Set on God Affections: Blessedness of Making God the Object of Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints Affections: Carnal, should be Mortified Affections: Christ Claims the First Place In Affections: Enkindled by Communion With Christ Affections: False Teachers Seek to Captivate Affections: should be Set Upon Heavenly Things Affections: should be Set Upon the Commandments of God Affections: should be Set Upon the House and Worship of God Affections: should be Set Upon the People of God Affections: should be Supremely Set Upon God Affections: should be Zealously Engaged for God Affections: should not Grow Cold The Affections of Saints, Supremely Set on God The Affections of the Wicked, are Unnatural and Perverted The Affections of the Wicked, not Sincerely Set on God The Affections: Blessedness of Making God the Object of The Affections: Carnal Affections Crucified in Saints The Affections: Carnal Affections should be Mortified The Affections: Christ Claims the First Place In The Affections: Enkindled by Communion With Christ The Affections: False Teachers Seek to Captivate The Affections: should be Set: Upon Heavenly Things The Affections: should be Set: Upon the Commandments of God The Affections: should be Set: Upon the House and Worship of God The Affections: should be Set: Upon the People of God The Affections: should be Supremely Set Upon God The Affections: should be Zealously Engaged for God The Affections: should not Grow Cold Related Terms Sanctification (13 Occurrences) |
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