Meaning of Ephesians 4:24

The verse Ephesians 4:24 describes a radical transformation that occurs in believers through Christ, moving from a former way of life characterized by deceit and corruption to a new existence that reflects the very nature of God. This "new self" is not merely an improvement of the old but a re-creation, imbued with divine qualities of genuine righteousness and sacredness, signifying a complete shift in identity and purpose. It emphasizes that this renewal is not a human achievement but a divine work, enabling believers to live in alignment with God's perfect character.

Context and Background

This verse is situated within Ephesians chapter 4, a section of the letter that transitions from doctrinal instruction (chapters 1-3) to practical exhortations for Christian living. Paul has just discussed "putting off" the old self, characterized by its sinful desires and actions (Ephesians 4:22), and now he presents the positive counterpart: "putting on" the new self. This concept is deeply rooted in the Jewish understanding of "dressing" in virtues and the Hellenistic idea of a spiritual rebirth or transformation. The imagery of "putting on" clothes suggests an intentional and active embrace of this new identity.

Key Themes and Messages

• Transformation and Re-creation: The core message is one of profound change. The "new self" is "created," indicating a divine act of making something entirely new, not merely repairing the old. This new self is patterned after God's likeness.
• Righteousness and Holiness: The qualities of this new self are specifically defined as "true righteousness and holiness." Righteousness refers to right conduct and right standing before God, while holiness signifies separation from sin and dedication to God. "True" emphasizes the authenticity and genuine nature of these attributes, contrasting them with any superficial or outward show.
• Divine Imprint: The phrase "created to be like God" highlights that this transformation is designed to reflect God's own character. It's a restoration of the image of God that was marred by sin.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls believers to actively engage with their new identity in Christ. It's not a passive state but an ongoing process of living out the reality of their re-creation. This involves consciously choosing to act in ways that are righteous and holy, aligning their thoughts, words, and deeds with God's will. The application is personal and communal, urging believers to live in a manner that testifies to the transformative power of the gospel. It means actively pursuing godly character and rejecting the old patterns of sin and deception.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This concept of re-creation and renewal is a central theme throughout Scripture. It echoes the creation account in Genesis, where humanity was made in God's image. The fall corrupted this image, but God's redemptive plan, culminating in Christ, promises restoration. Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection provide the basis for this new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17), enabling believers to be born again and live a new life. The Old Testament prophets often spoke of a new covenant and a new heart (Jeremiah 31:33), which is fulfilled in the new self described here.

Analogies

• Shedding Old Clothes for New: Imagine someone discarding worn-out, stained garments and putting on a pristine, tailored suit. The old clothes represent the former sinful life, and the new suit represents the new self, perfectly fitted and reflecting a renewed status.
• A Sculptor and Clay: God is the divine sculptor, and believers are the clay. He takes the broken pieces of their former selves and re-molds them into a beautiful, purposeful creation, reflecting His own artistry and design.
• A Seed Growing into a New Plant: The old self is like a dormant seed of sin. Through the power of the Spirit, it is replaced by a new seed of righteousness, which germinates and grows into a plant bearing the fruit of holiness.

Relation to Other Verses

• Colossians 3:10: This verse directly parallels Ephesians 4:24, stating, "and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator."
• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This verse emphasizes the reality of the new creation.
• Romans 6:4: "We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life." This highlights the new life that comes through identification with Christ's death and resurrection.
• 1 Peter 1:15-16: "but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, because I am holy.'" This echoes the call to holiness inherent in the new self.