Killing Sin
Donny Coulter teaches that believers must actively 'kill' sin in their lives by putting off all sinful behaviors and attitudes, embracing holiness as a reflection of Christ living within them.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life of holiness as believers, focusing on putting away relational sins and behaviors that are offensive to God. The message highlights the need to acknowledge the old self as dead, make sin an enemy, rebel against its power, close the door to sin, and daily acknowledge and repent of sin while relying on God's power.
Sermon Outline
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I
- The believer's life is hidden with Christ and called to holiness
- The command to put to death sinful behaviors and desires
- The importance of setting the mind on things above
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II
- Listing of sins to be put off including sexual immorality, anger, wrath, malice
- No exceptions allowed—'all' sinful behaviors must be abandoned
- Sin is offensive to God and the gospel
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III
- The difference between anger (internal) and wrath (external outburst)
- Biblical examples illustrating the destructive power of anger
- The necessity of putting aside sin immediately without delay
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IV
- Motivation for holiness should be love for Christ, not just His return
- Practical implications of putting off sin and putting on Christlike virtues
- Encouragement to live a transformed life reflecting the new self
Key Quotes
“Put to death, kill, mortify, if you have the old King James, mortify the deeds of the body.” — Donny Coulter
“If they can take their robes off to do an evil work, shouldn't we put aside these things to do a holy work?” — Donny Coulter
“A holy life never grows out of an angry spirit. Bitterness never makes us better.” — Donny Coulter
Application Points
- Examine your life regularly and actively put to death sinful attitudes and actions without delay.
- Let your motivation for holy living be your love for Christ and the gospel, not just fear of His return.
- Cultivate Christlike virtues such as kindness, humility, and forgiveness to replace sinful behaviors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'put to death' sin?
It means to completely annihilate or kill sinful behaviors and desires, removing them from your life entirely.
Why is holiness important for believers?
Holiness reflects the life of Christ within us and prepares us to appear with Him in glory, showing a transformed life.
How should believers be motivated to put away sin?
Believers should be motivated primarily by their love for Christ and the gospel, not just by the anticipation of His return.
What is the difference between anger and wrath?
Anger is a deep-rooted, internal bitterness, while wrath is the outward eruption or outburst of that anger.
Are some sins more acceptable than others?
No, all sin is offensive to God and the gospel, and believers are called to put off all sinful behaviors without exception.