Ephesians 4:23 - Printer Friendly

ESV: and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,

NIV: to be made new in the attitude of your minds;

NASB: and that you are to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,

CSB: to be renewed in the spirit of your minds,

NLT: Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.

KJV: And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

NKJV: and be renewed in the spirit of your mind,

In this verse, Paul identifies the way a Christian can separate themselves from the sin and deception of their former life, also called the "old self" (Ephesians 4:22). This transformation is only possible through Christ (Ephesians 2:8–9), for those who have come to know Him as Savior (Ephesians 4:21), and when a person commits their mind and heart to it. Paul often speaks of the importance of being "renewed," particularly in one's thinking (Romans 12:2, Colossians 3:10). This is a powerful and ongoing aspect of our relationship with Christ (2 Corinthians 4:16; Titus 3:5).

Paul's closest parallel to this concept is found in Romans 8:5: "For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit." The believer is called to live by the Spirit by focusing his or her mind on what is godly. This includes the believer's thoughts and actions. Those who do are "created after the likeness of God" (Ephesians 4:24).

Ephesians 4:17–32 is a valuable, highly practical explanation of how to live out a Christian life. Paul notes the difference between a life wallowing under the power of sin, as opposed to a life thriving in the power of Christ. Christians are called on to ''put away'' the things which entangle unbelievers. This includes sins such as malice, slander, commotion, and bitterness. Instead, we should demonstrate a Christ-like attitude of love and forgiveness.

Truly understanding saving grace, as Paul explained in prior chapters, is the Christian's first motivation for living a godly life. Here, Paul encourages believers to live in way which honors that gift. All saved Christians are part of a single, unified family, part of the ''body'' of Christ. At the same time, different believers are given different talents. Some are called to positions of leadership and authority. All Christians should turn away from the ''old self'' we were prior to being saved. Paul's explanation of the ''new self'' includes some basic, practical steps.

The first half of Ephesians focuses mostly on doctrine, setting up ideas related to the Christian faith. The last half, beginning in chapter 4, puts those theories into practice. Paul begins by emphasizing the ultimate unity of all Christians, regardless of individual spiritual gifts. Paul also begins to explain how knowledge of the truths should translate into action. Chapters 4, 5, and 6 feature specific, real-world applications of Christianity to daily life.

Ephesians follows a theme common in Paul's writings: connecting theory with practice. In this book, however, he goes into greater depth before making the transition. As a letter meant to be read by more than just the believers at Ephesus, this is an important look at how Christian belief should translate into Christian action. The first three chapters lay out spiritual ideas, the last three chapters show how these truths should be applied in the life of a mature believer. Paul focuses heavily on love, the unity of the Christian church, and the incredible value of our salvation through Christ.

Accessed 5/5/2024 4:11:35 PM