John Owen: 'All other ways of mortification are vain, all helps leave us helpless, it must be done by the Spirit.'

All other ways of mortification are vain, all helps leave us helpless, it must be done by the Spirit.

John Owen, the famous English theologian, once stated, "All other ways of mortification are vain, all helps leave us helpless, it must be done by the Spirit." This quote carries a profound meaning, emphasizing the fact that all attempts at self-discipline or overcoming our sinful nature through our own strength are ultimately futile. Owen emphasizes the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the process of mortification, highlighting the necessity of divine intervention.In a straightforward sense, this quote suggests that human efforts alone cannot lead to true mortification - the process of subduing or putting to death our sinful tendencies. Owen asserts that any other methods or aids we may seek out, be it external influences, self-help techniques, or religious rituals, will ultimately fall short in producing lasting change. Our attempts may temporarily alleviate or mask our inner struggles, but they do little to address the root source of our sinful nature.By introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, we can further explore the significance of Owen's quote. Let's delve into the idea of the "self" and its relationship to the Spirit. In various philosophical and spiritual traditions, the concept of the "self" has been debated and scrutinized. Some argue that there is no fixed self, suggesting that our sense of identity and individuality is nothing more than an illusion. Others propose that the self is in a constant state of flux, shaped by external influences and internal desires.Drawing a parallel between this philosophical concept and Owen's quote, we can propose that the self, on its own, lacks the necessary power to achieve true mortification. Just as the concept of a fixed self may be illusory, our attempts to change or overcome our sinful nature without divine intervention can be likened to chasing after a mirage. It is when we recognize the limitations of our own strength and surrender ourselves to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit that we can truly experience the process of mortification.Contrasting the two concepts, we can unveil the inherent flaws in relying solely on our own efforts for spiritual growth. The self, when viewed as a separate and independent entity, can become entangled in the web of its own desires and attachments. We may try to break free from negative habits or destructive patterns, but it is the very nature of the self to cling to what is familiar, comfortable, and pleasurable. This innate tendency hampers our ability to genuinely eliminate the roots of our sinful nature.On the other hand, when we acknowledge the need for divine intervention and invite the Spirit into our lives, a profound transformation can take place. The Spirit, being beyond the limitations of the self, offers a power and guidance that transcends human constraints. It is through the work of the Spirit within us that the process of mortification becomes real and meaningful.In conclusion, John Owen's quote serves as a reminder of the futility of relying solely on our own strength for spiritual growth and mortification. By understanding the limitations of the self and embracing the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, we can experience genuine and lasting change. The philosophical concept of the self further emphasizes the vital role of divine intervention, showing us that true transformation can only occur when we surrender our own efforts and allow the Spirit to work within us. May we all find the humility to recognize our helplessness and the wisdom to rely on the Spirit for true mortification.