Important textual evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for omitting the words “it in.” However, the sense is not materially affected. Though our “old man” is described as crucified with Christ (v. 6), we are still in our “mortal body,” with its earthly desires and cravings. Sin is still a power. If we so allow, sin may still have dominion over us. Being born again of the Holy Spirit does not eradicate the earthy desires of the flesh. However, the experience places us in touch with a higher power by which we may ever successfully resist the attempted domination of sin. But it still rests with us to decide whether we will give our continued allegiance to sin or to Christ.
It is for this reason that we must experience a “fresh conversion” every day (see 1T 699; 7T 44). Our experience of yesterday is not sufficient for today. Though we may have died to sin yesterday, our “old man” may rear his ugly head again today. Only by keeping our old selves continually and completely dead to sin, as represented by our baptism, are we able to live daily unto God. And this experience is possible only through union with Jesus Christ, by a faith in Him that is so real and so constant that like Him we hate sin and love righteousness. Compare COL 331. For Paul’s experience of daily consecration see 1 Cor. 15:31; MH 452, 453; cf. 1 Cor. 9:27.
Reign.
Rather, “go on reigning,” as it has in the past. By using the word “reign” Paul is not implying a comparison between reigning and merely existing, but between reigning and being completely deposed. Believers die with Christ so that sin may no longer have any dominion over them.