Ephesians 4:17-24 is about the transformation of believers from their former way of life, marked by ignorance and sin, to a new life of righteousness and holiness through the renewal of their minds and putting on the new self created in the likeness of God.
17 Now this I say and testify in the Lord, that you must no longer walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds.
18 They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart.
19 They have become callous and have given themselves up to sensuality, greedy to practice every kind of impurity.
20 But that is not the way you learned Christ! – Ephesians 4:20 (ESV)
21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus,
22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires,
23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,
24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
Setting the Scene for Ephesians 4:17-24
In Ephesians chapter 4, the scene is set in a bustling marketplace in the ancient city of Ephesus. The apostle Paul is addressing a group of new believers who have gathered to hear his teachings. The crowd is a mix of both Jews and Gentiles, reflecting the diverse community that Paul is ministering to. The marketplace is filled with merchants selling their wares, the aroma of spices and incense wafting through the air, and the sound of vendors haggling with customers.
Among the crowd are individuals who have recently converted to Christianity, eager to learn more about their newfound faith. Paul, a prominent figure in the early Christian church, stands out with his commanding presence and passionate delivery. As he speaks, his words captivate the audience, urging them to put off their old way of life and be renewed in the spirit of their minds. The listeners hang on his every word, their hearts stirred by the message of transformation and renewal that Paul is proclaiming.
In this vibrant marketplace setting, Paul’s message resonates deeply with the audience, challenging them to live in a way that is worthy of their calling as followers of Christ. The scene is alive with energy and anticipation as the crowd contemplates the profound implications of Paul’s words, knowing that their lives will never be the same after encountering the transformative power of the gospel.
What is Ephesians 4:17-24 about?
This verse is a call to transformation and renewal. It invites us to examine our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, and to align them with the teachings and values of Christ. We are called to renew our minds by letting go of old ways of thinking that are contrary to the principles of love, grace, and compassion that Christ embodied. This renewal allows us to see ourselves, others, and the world in a new light, one that is shaped by the profound wisdom and love of Christ.
Putting on the new self in Christ means embodying the characteristics and virtues that Jesus exemplified during his time on earth. It is a call to live a life of integrity, kindness, forgiveness, and humility, reflecting the image of Christ in all we say and do. We are invited to embrace our new identity in Christ, let go of our old self-centered ways, and walk in the path of selflessness and service to others, just as Jesus did. This verse challenges us to continually strive towards becoming more like Christ, allowing His teachings and example to guide our thoughts, words, and actions each day.
So, let us take up this call to renew our minds and put on the new self in Christ with intention and purpose. Let the love and grace of Christ shape every aspect of our lives as we are open to transformation and growth. May we continually seek to align our thoughts and actions with the teachings of Jesus, so that we may truly become vessels of His light and love in the world.
Understanding what Ephesians 4:17-24 really means
Ephesians 4:17-24 serves as a poignant call to believers, urging them to live a life that is distinctly different from the ways of the world. In this passage, Paul emphasizes the need for a radical transformation, where individuals abandon their former way of living and embrace a new identity in Christ. The key phrases within these verses carry profound meanings that resonate with the essence of spiritual growth and renewal. For instance, the admonition to no longer live as the Gentiles do highlights the emptiness and purposelessness of a life devoid of God, emphasizing the shift from worldly wisdom to divine understanding.
Moreover, the directive to put off the old self, corrupted by deceitful desires, underscores the conscious decision required to reject sinful behaviors and thoughts continually. This process of sanctification is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey of spiritual growth. The call to be made new in the attitude of one’s mind stresses the importance of aligning one’s thoughts with God’s truth, signifying a continuous renewal that demands daily commitment. Additionally, the exhortation to put on the new self, created to reflect God’s righteousness and holiness, highlights the transformative power of embracing one’s new identity in Christ.
These themes find resonance in other biblical passages such as Romans 12:2, which emphasizes the need for mental and spiritual renewal, and Colossians 3:9-10, which echoes the call to discard the old self and embrace the new identity in Christ. The transformative power of being in Christ is further affirmed in 2 Corinthians 5:17, underscoring the reality of becoming a new creation in Him. In a contemporary context, Ephesians 4:17-24 remains relevant, challenging believers to navigate a world saturated with distractions and moral relativism by seeking continuous growth and transformation rather than settling for complacency.
To illustrate the transformative journey described in this passage, consider the story of John, a man who grappled with anger and dishonesty until he encountered Christ. Through diligent study of the Bible and fervent prayer, John embarked on a journey of renewal, gradually transforming his behavior and attitude. His story exemplifies the gradual process of sanctification, emphasizing the importance of renewing the mind and embracing the new self. Ultimately, Ephesians 4:17-24 serves as a compelling reminder of the transformative power of Christ, challenging believers to examine their lives, reject their old ways, and embody the new identity bestowed upon them through Him. By embracing this call to transformation, individuals not only honor God but also become living testimonies to His redemptive work in a world in need of His transformative grace.
How can we be renewed in the spirit?
One way we can be renewed in the spirit is by putting off our old selves, which are corrupted by deceitful desires, and instead be made new in the attitude of our minds. This involves consciously choosing to leave behind our old ways of thinking and behaving and allowing ourselves to be transformed by a new way of thinking that is aligned with the teachings of Christ.
We are called to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. This means striving to live a life that reflects the character of God, seeking to be righteous and holy in our thoughts, words, and deeds. We can continue to be renewed in the spirit and grow closer to God by actively choosing to live out this new self. Being renewed in the spirit is an ongoing process that requires intentional effort and surrender to God’s will ultimately. It involves continually seeking to align our thoughts, attitudes, and actions with the truth of God’s Word, allowing His Spirit to work in us and transform us into the image of Christ. Choosing to walk in the ways of righteousness and holiness daily can lead to a deepening sense of spiritual renewal and transformation in our lives.
Application
Picture your life as a marathon, each step intentional and full of purpose. Are you running with the wisdom and integrity you know you need? Shed the old habits like a worn-out pair of sneakers and step into a new mindset shaped by the highest values. Your workplace, your family—they need this new version of you, grounded in truth and righteousness. So, will you break free from the crowd and embrace this transformative journey?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.