17 This I say, therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you should no longer walk as the rest of the Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, 18 having their understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart; 19 who, being past feeling, have given themselves over to lewdness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 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, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your mind, 24 and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness. 25 Therefore, putting away lying, “Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,” for we are members of one another. 26 “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, 27 nor give place to the devil. 28 Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need. 29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. 32 And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
Ephesians 4:17-32
Q & A：
- What specific differences can be identified between the old man and the new man regarding lifestyle, mindset, and behavior? Have you ever encountered challenges or moments of instability while embracing your identity as the new man through faith? Please share your experiences. What actions or practices can be undertaken under the guidance of your identity as the new man? (Ephesians 4:17-24; 1 John 2:15-16)
- Describe the essential nutrients needed for the rebirth and growth of your spiritual man. Amid the busyness of daily tasks or a hectic work schedule, how can you remain steadfast in faith, living out Christ’s image and reflecting God’s nature as a living being? Encourage group members to pray together and (re)declare the truth of being born again. (John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 4:24; 2 Peter 1:3-4)
- How do you interpret this new reality, which is grounded in faith? Describe these new creation realities and their effects. What measures can we take to ensure that our faith and actions remain in harmony with this reality? (Ephesians 1:3)
Summary：
This week’s sermon highlights that faith is essential for a profound transformation in our lives. Christianity is not centered on the observance of religious rituals but on cultivating a personal relationship with God. This relationship inspires and empowers us to experience inner renewal, profoundly shaping our attitudes, thought patterns, and behaviors. In his letter to the church in Ephesus, the Apostle Paul reminds us that we are called to live as new creations, embracing the new creation realities Christ has made possible. He urges believers to put off their old selves and, through faith, step into the glory of Christ. This shift redirects our focus from personal fears and desires to alignment with Christ’s character. Through faith, we trust in the promises of God’s Word, enabling us to live a transformed life that is no longer self-centered. This empowers us to stand firm in an uncertain world, grounded in the unshakable, hope-filled reality of life in Christ.