What does it mean to "die to self"?
Quick answer
Dying to self is the Christian’s daily turning away from self-rule and self-worship toward Christ. It is not self-hatred or self-erasure; it is the surrender of the old, sin-distorted self so the new self in Christ can live.
Jesus’ words: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me" (Luke 9:23).
Galatians 2:20 — "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me."
Practically: confessing pride, returning to truth, choosing service, refusing resentment. The cross is daily; so is the resurrection.
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Original BibleDawn answer · reviewed 2026-06. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy.