The Mortification of Sin (Puritan Paperbacks)

‘This battle will last more or less all our days.’ In this abridgement of a classic work, The Mortification of Sin, the famous Puritan John Owen shows the need for Christians to engage in a life-long battle against the sinful tendencies that remain in them, despite their having been brought to faith and new life in Christ. Owen is very insistent that believers cannot hope to succeed in this battle in their own strength. He sees clearly that the fight can be won only through faith in Christ, and in the power of the Spirit. Fighting sin with human strength will produce only self-righteousness, superstition and anxiety of conscience. But with faith in Christ, and with the power of the Spirit, victory is certain. The temptations in times like Owen’s and ours are obvious on every side; the remedy to them is clearly pointed out in this practical and helpful book.

This greatest of all British theologians was incredibly prolific as a writer, with John Owen’s books numbering in the dozens. He was a man of great stature with national influence during his lifetime, preaching before Parliament multiple times and serving as chaplain and advisor to Oliver Cromwell. He also enjoyed some influence with King Charles II. He is best known, though, for his writings that cover subjects ranging from doctrinal explorations to ecclesiastical themes to practical advice. No matter the topic, it was thoroughly explored and presented with authority—and, although he often wrote books to help decipher troubling current issues, they are presented in a way that is timeless. The Works of John Owen is available in a 16-volume set, and is also available in single volumes. Books that continue to be of interest include The Mortification of Sin, Duties of Christian Fellowship, and Indwelling Sin in Believers, among others.