Meaning of Ephesians 4:22

This verse from Ephesians 4:22 encapsulates a core tenet of Christian transformation, urging believers to actively shed their former, unregenerate nature. The "old self" refers to the pre-conversion state of humanity, characterized by inherent sinfulness and a propensity toward actions and desires that alienate one from God. This corruption is not merely superficial but deeply ingrained, driven by "deceitful desires" that promise fulfillment but ultimately lead to spiritual decay and destruction. The imperative to "put off" signifies a deliberate and ongoing process of renunciation, a conscious decision to abandon the old patterns of thought, speech, and behavior that were prevalent before embracing faith in Christ. This act of divestment is presented as a prerequisite for embracing the new life offered in Christ.

Context and Background

Ephesians 4 is situated within Paul's larger discourse on Christian living and the unity of the church. Following his theological exposition on God's plan of salvation through Christ in the preceding chapters, Paul transitions to practical exhortations for believers. He calls for a life worthy of their calling, emphasizing the importance of humility, gentleness, patience, and unity within the body of Christ. The verses immediately preceding this one (4:17-19) describe the futile way of the Gentiles who "walk in the futility of their minds," their understanding darkened and their hearts hardened, leading to a life of sensuality and impurity. Ephesians 4:22, therefore, serves as a bridge, explaining the how of living a transformed life in contrast to the futile existence of those outside of Christ.

Key Themes and Messages

• Renunciation of the Old Self: The primary theme is the necessity of actively discarding the former way of life. This is not a passive experience but an intentional act of will.
• Corruption by Deceitful Desires: The verse identifies the root cause of the "old self's" destructive nature: desires that are inherently deceptive, promising satisfaction but leading to ruin. These desires are often alluring and persuasive, masking their true, damaging consequences.
• Holistic Transformation: The "old self" encompasses one's entire being – thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Putting it off implies a comprehensive change, not just in outward behavior but in the inner disposition.
• Active Participation: The language of "put off" implies that believers are active participants in their sanctification. It is not solely a work of God, but also requires their diligent effort and cooperation.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls for a continuous process of sanctification. It means recognizing and actively resisting the temptations and sinful inclinations that are remnants of one's unregenerate past. This involves:

• Self-Awareness: Identifying the specific "deceitful desires" that continue to exert influence.
• Confrontation: Actively challenging and rejecting these desires when they arise.
• Repentance: Regularly turning away from sin and toward God.
• Renewing the Mind: Filling one's mind with God's truth to counter the lies of deceitful desires.

The application is practical: when faced with a temptation rooted in old habits or lusts, the believer is to recall this command and actively choose to "put off" that inclination, aligning their will with God's.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This concept of shedding an old way of life for a new one is a recurring motif throughout Scripture.

• Old Covenant vs. New Covenant: The transition from the Old Covenant's ritualistic laws to the New Covenant's spiritual transformation mirrors this divestment.
• Creation and Redemption: Humanity's fall resulted in the "old self." Christ's redemptive work offers the possibility of a "new self" (2 Corinthians 5:17).
• Sanctification: This verse is a foundational aspect of the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are progressively made more like Christ.

Analogies

• Shedding Old Clothes: Imagine outgrowing a suit of clothes. It no longer fits, is perhaps tattered, and hinders movement. One must take it off to wear something new and functional. The "old self" is like ill-fitting, worn-out garments that must be discarded.
• Removing a Toxic Substance: Think of removing a poisonous substance from one's body or environment. It requires deliberate action to cleanse and purify. The "deceitful desires" are like a toxin that must be purged.
• Navigating a Maze: The "old self" is like being lost in a confusing maze, driven by impulses that lead to dead ends. The "new self" is about finding the path guided by truth and wisdom.

Relation to Other Verses

• Colossians 3:9-10: "Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." This parallel passage reinforces the idea of actively disrobing the old and adorning the new.
• Romans 6:6: "For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." This verse highlights the theological basis for "putting off" the old self, linking it to Christ's crucifixion and the liberation from sin's dominion.
• Galatians 5:16-17: "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want." This passage illustrates the ongoing spiritual battle against the "deceitful desires" of the flesh, which are the very essence of the "old self."
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" This verse speaks to the radical transformation that occurs when one is in Christ, providing the foundation and power for putting off the old and embracing the new.