Ephesians 4:20

But ye have not so learned Christ;

Ephesians 4:20 (KJV)

Context

The Apostle Paul wrote Ephesians to the church in Ephesus, emphasizing the unity of believers in Christ and the practical implications of living out their faith. In Ephesians 4, he encourages believers to walk in unity, maturity, and love. Verse 20 comes immediately after Paul’s description of the futile and corrupt lifestyle of the Gentiles, who are alienated from God and given over to sensuality and impurity. The phrase “But ye have not” signals a deliberate contrast, drawing a distinction between the Ephesian believers and the way they used to live before knowing Christ.

Ephesus was a significant city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its wealth, commerce, and the presence of the temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The believers there came from diverse backgrounds, including both Jews and Gentiles, who had different religious and cultural practices. This setting makes Paul’s words especially pointed: those who had learned Christ were no longer to live as they once had.

Meaning

The phrase “so learned Christ” implies a personal encounter with Jesus and the process of discipleship. It refers to the teaching and knowledge they acquired about Christ and His ways. This is not merely acquiring information about Jesus, but a transformative, personal knowledge that comes from being taught by Him and in Him. The word “so” points back to the lifestyle described in the previous verses, emphasizing that such behavior is entirely inconsistent with what they have been taught.

Paul highlights the transformative power of encountering Christ. The believers in Ephesus were once living according to the ways of the world, but through their knowledge of Christ, they were expected to undergo a radical change in their beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours. The phrase “ye have not so learned” implies that they were to live differently from the surrounding culture, adopting a new way of life that aligned with the teachings and example of Christ rather than conforming to the values and practices of their previous pagan or worldly lifestyles.

Paul’s emphasis on learning Christ also underscores the ongoing process of discipleship. It involves deepening one’s understanding of who Christ is, His teachings, and His example. The believers were to grow in their knowledge of Christ and allow that knowledge to shape their lives. This learning is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey, a continual seeking to know more about Christ, His character, and His will.

Biblical connections

The immediate context of Ephesians 4:21-24 clarifies that this learning involves hearing Christ, being taught in Him, putting off the old man, being renewed in the spirit of the mind, and putting on the new man created in righteousness and true holiness. True learning of Christ inherently involves a departure from the old way of life. The Christian life is not compatible with former pagan practices, and the believer’s conduct must align with the doctrine they have received from Christ.

Application

Reflect on your own life and consider how encountering Christ has transformed you. Are there areas where you are still conforming to worldly patterns rather than aligning with Christ’s teachings? Seek to renew your mind and make changes accordingly.

In a world that often promotes values contrary to the teachings of Christ, strive to live in a way that reflects His love, grace, and truth. Be intentional about resisting the pressure to conform and stand firm in your faith.

Recognize the importance of continually learning about Christ. Engage in studying His Word, seeking spiritual growth through prayer, participating in fellowship with other believers, and learning from mature Christians. As you grow in your knowledge of Christ, share the good news with others, being a witness of His transformative power in your life and encouraging others to learn about Him as well.

Reflection

Remember that studying the Bible involves reading and meditating on the entire context of a passage, as well as considering other related verses. Use additional study resources and seek guidance from trusted spiritual leaders to gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word.