It is imperative to understand that Jesus shared the same human nature as those he came to save, Hebrews 2:14-16, 17-18. His life “in the flesh” taught him about the strength of temptation and the weakness of human nature. His victory in temptation came from his dependence on strength from above – and because of this he always chose to obey his Father. This allows Jesus to “succor’ (understand and help) those who are tempted”. Even though Jesus, because was also God’s son, had to face the reality of the trials and temptations of all mankind. His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane demonstrated his personal conflict between flesh and spirit – “0 my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me” was the cry of our nature, Matthew 26:39 but “nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt” is the answer of the spiritual man.
Romans 8:3-5; 6-8 The Law of Moses with its rituals and blood offering of animal sacrifices were never truly effect a change in the heart of those who kept the law. Here is stated the purpose that God had in sending His own son “in the likeness of sinful flesh” into the world. Jesus had human nature, but was not sinful. We should realize by now that to be spiritually minded is the way of life and peace. To have our minds set on “flesh” is to be hostile toward God and that leads to death. (v6,7). Therefore we must deny the flesh.
Matthew 16:24 Jesus teaches that if any will follow him, he must ‘deny himself’ and take up his cross and follow him. Taking up a cross suggests crucifixion. Is that what Jesus is asking? Those things which are termed: the lust of the eye, the lust of the flesh and the pride of life are the impulses we must put away, 1 John 2:16. Paul expands on this in his discourse regarding baptism in the next reference.
Romans 6:6 The ‘old man’ means who we were before we give our lives over to Christ. The old man lives and participates in worldly (carnal) pleasures and interests. This way of life is symbolically crucified, or put to death when we are baptized. This refers to a fresh start with a new objective begins.
Galatians 5:24,25 Paul gives the same message here. They that are Christ’s must “crucify the flesh with it’s affections and lusts”, We are greatly blessed to have the consistent message of how our walk must reflect our belief and the change that we have from people who walk in the flesh to those who are growing in the fruit of the spirit. (v22,23)
Galatians 6:14 Paul’s words: “The world has been crucified to me” tells us that he was not mindful of it. His focus was on the things of Christ. This is the ideal to which all true disciples of Christ rigorously strives to attain. Our focus has to be on Godly things. Remember the theme of the Bible: to fill the earth with the glory of the LORD! IE those who reflect the character of God. (Numbers 14:21)
Hebrews 9:28 Christ’s sacrifice which brought redemption is linked to his return! He will appear a second time without sin! This is the hope of all believers.
Our complete consideration of the sacrifice of Jesus brings us back to baptism! Romans 6:8-9, 10-11. Jesus death destroyed sin in his flesh. We are associated with Jesus in death through baptism which confirms our desire to be associated with Christ, both in death and in life. “He died to sin once for all; but in that he lives, he lives to God”, and so must we.