Lord’s Day 33
Q89. What is the dying of the old self?
It is being truly sorry for sin, hating it more and more, and running away from it.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Psalm 51:3–4, 17
Joel 2:12–13
Romans 8:12–13
2 Corinthians 7:10
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does it mean to be "truly sorry" for sin according to this answer?
- 2
Why does the catechism say we should hate sin more and more, not just feel bad about it once?
- 3
What is the difference between feeling sorry you got caught and feeling sorry you sinned against God?
Illustration
If you touched a hot stove and burned your hand, you would pull away fast. You would not want to touch it again. Godly sorrow for sin is like that. It is not just a moment of regret. It is a growing hatred for the thing that hurts you and dishonors God. You pull away and keep pulling away.
Application
When you sin this week, do not just say "sorry" quickly and move on. Stop and think about why the sin is wrong. Ask God to make you hate it more, not because you are earning forgiveness, but because sin is the opposite of the good life he made you for.