Ephesians 4:22

That yee put off concerning the former conuersation, the olde man, which is corrupt according to the deceitfull lusts: Ephesians 4:22 (KJV)

Context: Ephesians is one of the Pauline Epistles, written by the apostle Paul to the church in Ephesus. In this passage Paul addresses believers, urging them to live a godly life in Christ.

Putting off the old man:

The phrase “the old man” refers to our former way of life before we came to know Christ. It represents our old self, characterised by sinful thoughts, desires, and behaviours. Paul encourages believers to “put off” or renounce this old way of life.

The corrupt nature:

The old man is described as corrupt, meaning it is morally and spiritually decayed. It is corrupted by the deceitful lusts of this world—desires rooted in deception that lead us away from God’s truth and righteousness.

Transformation in Christ:

The verse implies that believers are called to a radical transformation in Christ. This transformation begins with acknowledging our old sinful nature and consciously choosing to reject it. It involves a change of mind, heart, and actions. In the following verses (Ephesians 4:23‑24) Paul continues that believers should be renewed in the spirit of their mind and put on the new man, created in righteousness and true holiness.

Application:

As Christians we are called to live differently from the surrounding world. We must separate ourselves from the corrupting influences of our former sinful nature and pursue righteousness, truth, and holiness. This requires a continual process of renewing our minds, submitting to the Holy Spirit’s work, and aligning our thoughts, desires, and actions with God’s Word.

In summary:

Ephesians 4:22 urges believers to put off their former way of life, characterised by sinful desires, and to embrace the new life in Christ, clothed in righteousness and true holiness.