Denial of Self

[B-A-C]

John Wesley said "Denial of self is the essence of Christianity".

If loving others more than we love ourselves, loving our neighbors more than ourselves, loving our wives more than ourselves, and loving God
with all our heart, mind, soul and strength are emphasized, Is this true?
Is taking up our cross daily and dying to our worldly desires daily really the essence of Christianity?
There are many who don't want to hear this, but does that make it less true?

Luke 9:23; And He was saying to them all, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me.
Luke 9:24; "For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake, he is the one who will save it.

Gal 5:24; Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

 

[Travis]

John Wesley said "Denial of self is the essence of Christianity".

John Wesley said a number of things that were phenomenally true. I have the utmost respect for that man. Here are some more quotes I enjoy:



“Every one, though born of God in an instant, yea and sanctified in an instant, yet undoubtedly grows by slow degrees…” -Letter, 27 June 1760

“We allow, it is the work of God alone to justify, to sanctify, and to glorify; which three comprehend the whole of salvation.” -Predestination Calmly Considered

“And is it not incumbent on all that are justified to be ‘zealous of good works?’” -The Scripture Way of Salvation

“And by this token you may surely know whether you seek it by faith or by works. If by works, you want something to be done first, before you are sanctified. You think, I must first be or do thus or thus. Then you are seeking it by works unto this day. If you seek it by faith, you may expect it as you are; and expect it now.” -The Scripture Way of Salvation

“Our gospel, as it knows no other foundation of good works than faith, or of faith than Christ, so it clearly informs us, we are not his disciples while we either deny him to be the Author, or his Spirit to be the Inspirer an Perfecter, both of our faith and works.” -The Circumcision of the Heart

This is “sanctification;” which is, indeed, in some degree, the immediate fruit of justification, but, nevertheless, is a distinct gift of God, and of a totally different nature. The one implies what God does for us through his Son; the other, what he works in us by his Spirit. -Justification by Faith

 

[Oblate]

Self-denial is the essence of a Christian's life and a worthy conscience guide. Control of the prideful passions, joyful humility and gracious obedience born from our love of God strengthen the heart for all its battles.

Your post is a good encouragement.