THE ULTIMATE BREAKTHROUGH: PUTTING THE FLESH TO DEATH, By Dr Charity Segun Odeyemi (Lead Pastor, Evergreen Christian Centre Akure Nigeria)

The Nature of Breakthrough:
Breakthroughs are moments of profound transformation, often signifying a release from bondage, an overcoming of obstacles, or a transcendence of limitations. In the spiritual realm, breakthroughs are associated with a deep connection to divine principles, leading to a higher state of existence.
Galatians 5:24 – 25 And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
The spiritual journey is often marked by the relentless battle against the desires of the flesh, a struggle that becomes particularly pronounced for those who strive to live by Christian principles.
Reasons why the flesh has to be ruthlessly dealt with
By delving into the reasons why the flesh should be ruthlessly dealt with, we uncover the profound implications for the ultimate breakthrough – entering heaven.
1. The Battle Against Temptation:
The concept of temptation is a nuanced one within Christianity. Contrary to common belief, sinners are not tempted; they are living in their natural state. It is the standing Christian who becomes a target for temptation. Galatians 5:21 highlights the consequences of succumbing to the desires of the flesh. Therefore, putting the flesh to death becomes a constant endeavor for believers, as it is the very existence of faith that attracts the adversarial forces. By overcoming these temptations, believers pave the way for the ultimate breakthrough – a life attuned to spiritual virtues and a step closer to heaven.
2. The Flesh and the Dichotomy of Eternity:
A pivotal reason for dealing ruthlessly with the flesh lies in its transient nature. The flesh, unlike the soul and spirit, will not accompany believers to heaven or hell. The flesh, driven by earthly desires, resists gratifying the things of the spirit that align with heavenly virtues. It stands as an entity indifferent to the eternal destiny of the soul. This indifference becomes a perilous trap, as the unrestrained pursuit of earthly pleasures jeopardizes the believer’s chance of entering heaven. The urgency to put the flesh to death stems from the understanding that indulging its desires can lead to damnation and a tragic separation from God’s eternal presence.
3. The Three Phases of Man:
Genesis 2:7 sheds light on the three phases of man – the soul, the spirit, and the body. The flesh and spirit, initially created separately, were amalgamated to form the complete human being. The spirit man and flesh man coexist, each requiring the other for earthly existence. However, the union of these two components poses challenges, particularly when it comes to aligning with heavenly principles. The scriptural emphasis in 1 Corinthians 15:50 on the inability of flesh and blood to inherit the kingdom of God reinforces the need for a transformative process. Getting to heaven is presented as contingent upon addressing this inherent dichotomy, either through the physical death of the body or the divine event of rapture.
In conclusion, the call to put the flesh to death is not merely a doctrinal precept but a profound spiritual imperative for those seeking the ultimate breakthrough – entrance into heaven. By recognizing the inherent challenges posed by the desires of the flesh, believers are equipped to engage in a relentless battle, understanding that the flesh, devoid of concern for eternal consequences, must be subdued for the sake of a transcendent spiritual existence.
The journey toward heaven demands a resolute commitment to overcoming the temporal allure of the flesh, ultimately securing a place in the eternal presence of God.