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Is it not embedded in our spirit to have passion?

Colossians 3:5 says to put to death our earthly passion.

Colossians 3:1 - 25

ESV - 1 If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Clarify • Share • Report • Asked August 16 2013 • Mini Anonymous

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My picture Jack Gutknecht

Is passion embedded in our spirit? Yes, but we must ask which passion.

We are made in God's image as beings capable of deep emotion and desire. Acts 14:15 and James 5:17 describe people as "of like passions," meaning "men with the same emotions as we" (International Standard Bible Encyclopedia). Passion itself is not the problem.

Colossians 3:5 commands: "Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: sexual immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry." ISBE notes this "passion" (pathos) means "any violent over-emotion that robs a man of his self-control." Galatians 5:24 confirms: "Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."

The "passion" that Colossians 3:5 commands us to put to death is not the mere capacity for emotion or feeling. It is violent over-emotion that robs a person of self-control. It is passion that has become master rather than servant.

2 days ago • Report

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