THE FLESH

The Word of God uses this term to express the egocentric force behind man's rebellious nature. 

John Piper - The flesh is the proud and unsubmissive root of depravity in every human heart. It either exalts itself subtly through pride and self-reliance ... or flaunts itself blatantly through self-assertive, authority-despising immorality.

Accommodating it in one's life is contrary to that which is required to receive the gift of salvation ... those who are in the flesh cannot please God. (Romans 8:8)

1. The flesh cannot be transformed into submissive, obedient flesh. God’s method of dealing with your flesh is not to change it ... but to condemn it. 

2. The flesh cannot be reformed. It cannot be corrected or restored to its original purity. That which has been corrupted remains corrupt. 

3. The flesh cannot be reconciled to God. The Lord can never be in harmony with that which is completely out of tune with His righteous character. 

Evidence that you have been saved by grace through faith ... Those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. (Galatians 5:24)

Freedom from guilt and shame comes ... There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. (Romans 8:1)

Surrender to His Lordship is beautifully expressed in the following verse ... I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)

With this as your personal testimony, 'the flesh' loses all power.