Understanding “Denying Yourself” in the Teachings of Jesus

Few commands of Jesus are as radical and challenging as His call to “deny yourself.” But what does this mean in the context of biblical Christianity? Let’s explore the passages, principles, and practical implications of self-denial as taught in Scripture.

The Call to Deny Yourself: Jesus’ Words

The clearest statement about denying oneself comes from Jesus Himself:

And he said unto all, If any man would come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. - Luke 9:23 ASV

Here, Jesus lays out three steps for discipleship: denying oneself, taking up one’s cross daily, and following Him. This teaching is found in all three Synoptic Gospels (see also Matthew 16:24 ASV; Mark 8:34 ASV), showing its central importance.

What Does “Denying Yourself” Mean?

Biblically, to “deny yourself” means to say “no” to your own desires, ambitions, and self-centeredness, choosing instead to live for Christ and His purposes. It is a decisive turning away from self-rule and self-interest, surrendering control to Jesus as Lord.

• Not Self-Hatred: It does not mean despising yourself or neglecting your basic needs (compare Ephesians 5:29 ASV).
• Not Asceticism: It is not about denying all pleasures or practicing extreme self-punishment (see Colossians 2:23 ASV).
• Death to the Old Self: It is about crucifying the old sinful nature and living a new life by the Spirit (see Galatians 2:20 ASV).

I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me: and that life which I now live in the flesh I live in faith, the faith which is in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself up for me. - Galatians 2:20 ASV

The Motivation for Self-Denial

Why does Jesus command self-denial? The answer is not legalistic discipline, but a new identity and purpose:

• To Find True Life: Jesus teaches that losing your life for His sake leads to finding it. Real life is found not in serving self, but in serving Him (Matthew 16:25 ASV).
• To Follow Jesus’ Example: Jesus Himself demonstrated perfect self-denial, submitting to the Father’s will even to death (Philippians 2:5-8 ASV).
• To Serve Others: Denying self frees us to love and serve others, following Christ’s pattern (Mark 10:45 ASV).

Practical Expressions of Self-Denial

Self-denial is not a one-time act, but a daily lifestyle. Here are some practical ways it is lived out:

• Resisting sinful temptations and desires (Titus 2:12 ASV).
• Choosing God’s will over personal comfort or ambition (Matthew 26:39 ASV).
• Placing the needs of others before our own (Philippians 2:3 ASV).
• Sacrificing time, resources, or preferences for the sake of the gospel (Luke 14:33 ASV).

The Power to Deny Self

It is important to remember that self-denial is not accomplished by human willpower alone. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to say no to the flesh and yes to Christ (Romans 8:13 ASV). This is part of a life transformed by the gospel.

Conclusion

Denying yourself, according to the Bible, is a foundational aspect of following Jesus. It means turning from self-centeredness, dying to the old way of life, and living for Christ. It is costly, but leads to true life, joy, and eternal reward with Him.

Related Questions

• What does it mean to take up your cross?
• How do we follow Jesus daily?
• Why is self-denial important in the Christian life?
• What is the role of the Holy Spirit in overcoming the flesh?