DYING TO SELF
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Galatians 2:20
Supporting Texts: Luke 9:23-24, Romans 6:6-11, Philippians 3:7-10, Colossians 3:3-5, John 12:24-26
INTRODUCTION:
One of the most challenging yet crucial aspects of the Christian life is learning to die to self. In a world that encourages self-promotion, self-will, and personal gratification, the call to die to self sounds countercultural. Yet, this is exactly what Jesus demands of anyone who desires to follow Him.
Dying to self means putting to death our sinful desires, selfish ambitions, and human pride. It is allowing the life of Christ to dominate every aspect of our lives so that His will becomes our own. It is not a one-time event but a daily surrender to the Lordship of Christ.
Many believers struggle with spiritual stagnation because they have not truly surrendered themselves. Until we die to self, we cannot live for Christ in fullness. This message will guide us into the liberating truth of self-denial that leads to true spiritual power and resurrection life.
1. UNDERSTANDING WHAT IT MEANS TO DIE TO SELF
Dying to self involves crucifying the old man and surrendering completely to God’s will.
a) Galatians 2:20 – Crucified with Christ
Our old life is nailed to the cross, and we now live by faith in the Son of God.
b) Romans 6:6 – The Old Man is Destroyed
The power of sin is broken when we identify with Christ’s death.
c) Colossians 3:3 – Hidden with Christ in God
True life begins when the self-life ends.
d) John 12:24 – The Grain Must Die to Bear Fruit
Without death to self, there is no multiplication of spiritual fruit.
Biblical Example: Paul exemplifies a life surrendered to Christ, considering all his gains as loss for the sake of knowing Jesus (Philippians 3:7–10).
2. THE REQUIREMENT OF SELF-DENIAL IN DISCIPLESHIP
Jesus made self-denial a non-negotiable requirement for anyone who would follow Him.
a) Luke 9:23 – Deny Yourself Daily
Christianity is not about convenience but daily surrender.
b) Matthew 16:24 – Take Up Your Cross
A life of discipleship includes embracing sacrifice and suffering.
c) Romans 12:1 – Present Your Body as a Living Sacrifice
God requires the entirety of our lives laid upon His altar.
d) 2 Timothy 2:11–12 – Dying with Christ to Reign with Him
Sharing in Christ’s death prepares us to share in His glory.
Biblical Example: The rich young ruler walked away sorrowful because he was unwilling to die to self (Matthew 19:16–22).
3. EVIDENCE OF A LIFE DEAD TO SELF
A person who is dead to self manifests godly character, humility, and obedience.
a) Philippians 2:3 – No Selfish Ambition
Selfless service replaces pride and competition.
b) Galatians 5:24 – Crucified the Flesh with Its Desires
Carnal desires no longer rule the life of the surrendered believer.
c) 1 Peter 2:23 – Responding Like Christ in Suffering
A dead man does not retaliate; he entrusts everything to God.
d) 1 John 2:6 – Living as Jesus Lived
Christ becomes our pattern in every decision and action.
Biblical Example: Stephen, while being stoned, forgave his killers—proof of a life completely dead to self (Acts 7:59–60).
4. THE REWARDS OF DYING TO SELF
Though painful, dying to self leads to powerful spiritual rewards and divine intimacy.
a) John 12:26 – Honoured by the Father
God honours those who serve Him selflessly.
b) Matthew 16:25 – Saving Your Life by Losing It
Eternal gain comes when we lose our earthly desires.
c) 2 Corinthians 4:10 – Manifesting the Life of Christ
The more we die to self, the more Christ is revealed in us.
d) Revelation 3:21 – Sharing Christ’s Throne
Those who overcome the self-life are promised eternal rulership.
Biblical Example: Jesus' resurrection and exaltation came only after He fully submitted to death on the cross (Philippians 2:8–11).
CONCLUSION:
Dying to self is not a suggestion but a spiritual requirement for those who wish to walk in the fullness of Christ. It is the pathway to power, purpose, and divine intimacy. Without death, there is no true resurrection. Until the flesh is crucified, the Spirit cannot reign fully in our lives.
Today, God is calling us to lay down our selfish desires, our ambitions, and our pride, and to live solely for His glory. The cost may be high, but the reward is far greater. When you die to self, you make room for Christ to live and work mightily through you.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, crucify my flesh and help me to live fully for You.
2. Father, give me grace to deny myself and carry my cross daily.
3. Deliver me from the spirit of pride and selfishness.
4. Help me to count all things loss for the sake of knowing Christ.
5. Let Your life and glory be fully revealed through me.
