Ephesians 4:20 is about the transformative power of experiencing a personal relationship with Jesus Christ which leads to a new way of thinking and living according to His teachings.
20 But that is not the way you learned Christ! – Ephesians 4:20 (ESV)
Setting the Scene for Ephesians 4:20
In Ephesians chapter 4, the apostle Paul is writing to the church in Ephesus, urging them to live a life worthy of their calling as followers of Christ. As he pens these words, we can imagine a scene where the believers in Ephesus have gathered together in a humble meeting place, perhaps a simple home or a small church building. The room is filled with a diverse group of individuals, each with their own unique background and story of how they came to know Christ.
Among the group are former thieves who have now turned from their old ways, laborers who have left behind their pagan practices, and women who have embraced a new identity in Christ. They have all come together to hear Paul’s words and to encourage one another in their faith journey. The atmosphere is one of unity and love, as they seek to grow in their understanding of God’s grace and to live in a manner that reflects the transformation they have experienced through Christ.
As Paul’s letter is read aloud, the believers listen intently, their hearts stirred by his exhortation to put off their old selves and to be renewed in the spirit of their minds. They are challenged to live in a way that is different from the world around them, to speak the truth in love, and to build one another up in the body of Christ. In this moment, the believers in Ephesus are reminded of the power of God’s grace to transform lives and to bring about true unity among believers from all walks of life.
What is Ephesians 4:20 about?
The apostle Paul urges believers in Ephesians 4:20 to remember the teachings of Christ that they have learned and to live in accordance with them. He emphasizes the importance of embodying the principles and values of Jesus in our daily lives. Paul is reminding us that as followers of Christ, we are called to a distinct way of living that reflects His teachings of love, compassion, forgiveness, and selflessness by saying, “But that is not the way you learned Christ.”
This verse serves as a powerful encouragement to examine our thoughts, actions, and choices in light of the teachings of Christ. It challenges us to consider whether our behaviors align with the principles of the Gospel and to make any necessary changes to be more Christ-like in all aspects of our lives. We honor God and become beacons of light and hope in a world that is often filled with darkness and despair as we strive to live differently.
So, let us ponder on this verse and ask ourselves: Are we truly living out the teachings of Christ in our everyday interactions? Are we showing love and compassion to others as He did? How can we better align our lives with the example set by Jesus? May we be inspired to make a conscious effort to live in a way that reflects the profound teachings and love of Christ.
Understanding what Ephesians 4:20 really means
In Ephesians 4:20, Paul’s message to the Ephesians resonates with a timeless truth that transcends the boundaries of time and culture. He urges believers to embrace a radical transformation that comes with truly following Christ. The context of this verse is crucial, as it forms part of Paul’s letter emphasizing the profound change that occurs when one surrenders to the teachings of Jesus. The surrounding verses paint a vivid contrast between the old self, characterized by sinful behaviors, and the new self, which is fashioned in the likeness of God in righteousness and holiness.
“You did not learn Christ in this way” stands out as a poignant phrase in Ephesians 4:20, indicating that the behaviors being admonished are incongruent with the essence of Christ’s teachings. The term “learn Christ” goes beyond mere intellectual understanding; it implies a deep, personal connection with Jesus that leads to a transformative experience. This unique phrase underscores the importance of not just knowing about Christ but truly internalizing His teachings to the point of life-altering change.
Drawing parallels with other biblical passages enriches our understanding of Ephesians 4:20. Romans 12:2 echoes the call for transformation by renewing the mind in Christ, emphasizing the need to break away from worldly patterns. Colossians 3:9-10 reinforces the theme of shedding the old self and embracing a new identity in Christ, highlighting the ongoing renewal that believers experience in their journey of faith.
The relevance of Ephesians 4:20 in today’s context is striking. In a world where moral relativism and conflicting values abound, this verse serves as a beacon, guiding believers to a higher standard rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus. It challenges us to introspect, ensuring that our actions and attitudes align with our professed faith, prompting a life of authenticity and integrity.
Consider John, a man whose life was once marred by deceit and selfishness. Upon encountering the transformative message of Jesus, he realized the stark disparity between his former ways and the path of faith he now trod. Through a gradual process of learning and growing in his relationship with Christ, John underwent a profound metamorphosis. His journey exemplifies the power of “learning Christ” and the radical change it catalyzes in a person’s life, illustrating the transformative impact of genuine discipleship.
In conclusion, Ephesians 4:20 beckons believers to a deeper commitment beyond mere acquaintance with Christ’s teachings. It urges us to allow His words to permeate our beings, effecting a profound metamorphosis that shapes our actions and thoughts. This verse serves as a poignant reminder that following Jesus entails a continual renewal of the mind and a steadfast commitment to living out our faith in a manner that mirrors His love and truth.
Are we living in accordance with Christ’s teachings?
The apostle Paul urges believers in Ephesians 4:20 to live in a way that aligns with the teachings of Christ. This verse emphasizes the importance of righteousness, holiness, and truth in our actions and conduct. It challenges us to imitate Christ in how we think, speak, and behave, putting off our old selves and allowing ourselves to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. We, as Christians, must reflect on whether our lives truly align with the teachings of Christ as outlined in the Bible. Are we actively seeking to grow in our faith, to live out love, humility, and forgiveness in our relationships with others, and to pursue a life characterized by integrity and moral uprightness? Reflecting on these questions allows us to evaluate how we are living out the principles of Christian faith in our daily lives and strive towards a deeper alignment with Christ’s teachings. The goal is ultimately to bear fruit in keeping with repentance and to walk in a manner that glorifies God. Living in accordance with Christ’s teachings requires us to continuously align our thoughts and actions with the standards set by Him. We can embody the transformative power of the Gospel and be a light in the world around us by following His example of love, compassion, and righteousness.
Application
Imagine navigating your daily grind, weaving through work deadlines and family moments. Ephesians 4:20 calls you to reboot your life with Christ’s teachings, trading outdated habits for meaningful connections. Don’t just hear His words—live them. Step up, make a change. Are you ready to sync His truth into your every action with others?
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.