Ephesians 4:20-22
20 But you have not so learned Christ, 21 if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 that you put off, concerning your former conduct, the old man which grows corrupt according to the deceitful lusts,
One of the most remarkable transformations in the Bible is the man Saul, who later became Paul. He was so feared within the Christian community because he dragged believers from their homes and had them stoned to death. He did all this thinking he was serving God. After his encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus, he becomes an entirely different man.
When one becomes a disciple of Christ, one will see true transformation in their life. They will forsake their old sinful ways, and they will become someone entirely new. Christ transforms us from the inside and this affects how we live life.
One cannot claim to be a believer and a disciple of Christ but still continue living in the same sinful manner that they used to before they got born again. Even those in the world know and expect a change in the life of an individual who claims to be born again. As a disciple of Christ, we each must put off the old man and his conduct because we are now born again and made new.
Titus 2:11-12 NKJV
11 For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age,
It is by God’s grace that we are saved, and that same grace teaches us to say no to ungodliness and worldly lusts. This same grace enables us to live soberly and righteously in a manner that pleases God. This does not mean that we will not fall into sin, but rather when we do and are convicted by the Holy Spirit, we will be quick to confess our sins to God who is faithful and just, and as promised, he will forgive us of all our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
May we be quick to forsake our old sinful ways and embrace the new nature we have been given in Christ our Lord.
Reflections
What is something from your childhood or former life career or relationship that you are still holding on to?
Which habit from your former sinful life do you find hard to let go of?
God has already given you the grace and help to overcome, what’s your next move?
