According to Romans 8:13, it is by the Spirit that the ________ of the body are to be put to death.

In Romans 8:13, the verse states that it is through the Spirit that the "deeds of the body" are to be put to death. This refers specifically to the actions and behaviors that arise from a life of sin and disobedience to God. The focus here is on the idea that living according to the flesh leads to a separation from God, while living by the Spirit empowers believers to overcome sin and live in accordance with God's will.

The importance of this verse lies in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. It emphasizes that through the Spirit, individuals are given the strength and capability to reject sinful actions—referred to as "deeds"—and embrace a life that reflects God's character and purposes.

The other choices, while related to spiritual life and behavior in various ways, do not capture the specific notion addressed in this passage. Desires and thoughts may influence a person’s actions, but it is the deeds, the actual behaviors and practices one engages in, that are to be actively put to death through the Spirit's work. Fruits obviously relate to the outcomes of a life lived in accordance with the Spirit but are not the focus of this particular verse.