Ephesians Study 8 Off with the Old, On with the New Ephesians 4:17–32

8 Off with the Old, On with the New Ephesians 4:17–32

Purpose: Because we are new people, we should no longer walk as the Gentiles but rather experience renewal. To consider the purity of conduct and communication necessary for maintaining unity in the body of Christ.

“It's easier said than done” is a cliché that certainly applies to Christian living and unity. Remnants of the “old self,” (v. 22) too often get in the way. Somehow we manage to say the wrong thing or act the wrong way. Paul's aim in this passage is to help make Christian life and unity a little more “done.”

1.  Do Christians necessarily live better lives than non-Christians? Explain.

2.  Read Ephesians 4:17–32. Paul continues to flesh out what it means for his readers to live a life worthy of their calling (4:1). How does he contrast the life of the Gentile (unbeliever) with that of a true believer?

3.  What are the effects of this condition (vv. 17–19)?

4.  How do you see residual aspects of this condition in your life?

(Believers, though born again and truly new in real ways, still have the flesh, an aspect of ourselves that is still fallen and in need of renewal.)

5.  What does it mean to put off the old self (4:22 )?

6.  "To be renewed in the spirit of your mind" is interesting because it is a command given to us to passively receive something, (4:23) emphasizing God's role to renew us and ours to intentionally seek that renewal. How do you think we can do this?

(Prayer fits here, Bible study, worship, asking to be filled with the Holy Spirit.)

7.  In verses 25–32 what does Paul tell us to put off, what does he say to put on and what reason does he give for doing these things? (If he doesn't explicitly state each of the three parts for a given topic, fill in what is implied.)

8.  How do you do all of this “putting off” and “putting on?”

9.  Which of the commands in verses 25–32 do you have the most difficulty following? Explain.

10.  What practical steps could you take this week to improve your relationships with others in this area of difficulty?

11.  Which of the commands in verses 25–32 have you seen God strengthen you to obey?

12.  Spend time praising God for his work in your life, and pray that he will give you grace in the areas needing improvement.