The Conquest of Carnality Part 2

The Conquest of Carnality Part 2

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
Romans 8:37

From our last time together, I conveyed that carnality exhibits an extreme egotistical expression of self-exaltation and self-gratification. It is also intentional in infecting the head and hearts with an insidious temperament of independence from our infinite God, which initiates with impunity what I refer to as lustship as opposed to Lordship. In addition, carnality is driven by an immersed disdain for devotion to the Lord and discipleship.

Furthermore, carnality seeks a suspension of sanctification as well as the procurement of a putrid, stagnant spiritual life. Consequently, a captive of carnality will consistently be in contention with GOD’S WILL.

The title associated with the previous as well as this week’s blog, “Conquest of Carnality,” typically refers to the spiritual process of overcoming the sinful nature (often called “the flesh”) and living according to the Spirit of God. In addition, the term “conquest” implies a battle or victory. Faithful followers of the Lord believe that the flesh and the Spirit are in constant conflict.

Galatians 5:17
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

The conquest of carnality is not achieved by human strength alone, but through Jesus who loves us.

Romans 8:37
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Paul points us to a powerful truth: “more than conquerors.” That is, we are overwhelmingly conquerors, and our triumph transcends victory. Permit me to make it plain to process so we can practice this truth.

More than a conqueror is not scarcely surviving, scratching by, and succeeding by a shallow margin. On the contrary, it is a definitive, devastating victory because the power behind it is supernatural and not natural. Paul forcefully forwards the foundation of this victory in one thing:

“Through Him who loved us.”

And not our strength, one’s manipulated mastery, or religious routines. It is absolute reality because of our Lord and God, Jesus Christ’s unchanging, sacrificial love.

Our Lord’s prior show of love (His sacrificial death on the cross) eternally locks us into His present and future commitment to us. (Can I get an AWESOME AMEN!!)

Consequently, the conquest of carnality can be a reality when:

  • Our faith is in Christ (Galatians 2:20)

  • Our empowerment is by the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:13)

  • We regularly renew our minds through God’s Word (Romans 12:2)

  • We consistently crucify the flesh (Galatians 5:24)

  • We prioritize the practice of walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16)

  • The discipline of daily dependence on the Spirit for guidance and strength

Before I close, I would like to provide some practical steps for securing a sure conquest of carnality:

  • Purpose to pray and fast more consistently to conquer and control fleshly desires

  • Seek to submerge your soul in Scripture for spiritual renewal

  • Be active in applying accountability and fixing yourself in fellowship with other believers

  • Evade and erase yourself from environments that treat carnal trends

FtGG
Not a sermon, but some thoughts.

Philip King