Text: Ephesians 4:17-24
Theme: Followers of Jesus must reject their old way of life and be renewed in the likeness of Christ.
Biblical Studies Toolbox: “Cross-Referencing Scripture with Scripture”
The Bible is its own best interpreter. When we read one passage, we should look for other parts of Scripture that teach similar truths or use similar language. This practice, called "cross-referencing," helps us understand the consistent patterns in biblical thought and avoid reading a verse in isolation.
In this passage, Paul contrasts the "old life" with the "new life in Christ." By tracing similar themes in his other letters, we can better understand what he means by “renewal,” “putting off,” and “putting on.” For instance, his teaching in Romans 6:1-14 and Colossians 3:1-17 expands the same ideas, showing that transformation involves dying to sin and living in the power of the Spirit.
Read Ephesians 4:17–24 with your group.
Study and Discussion
Verses 17–18: The Futility of the Old Life
Paul urges believers not to walk as the Gentiles do, describing their minds as futile and darkened, separated from the life of God.
Cross-References:
- Romans 1:21 – “For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking.”
- 1 Corinthians 2:14 – “The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God… he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned.”
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think Paul means by “the futility of their minds”? How do Romans 1:21 and 1 Corinthians 2:14 help explain this?
- Why do you think he uses the phrase “alienated from the life of God” to describe the spiritual condition of those apart from Christ?
- What changes when someone’s mind is renewed by the Spirit? What are some ways that their thinking might change?
Verse 19: The Hardening of the Heart
The unbelieving world, Paul says, becomes callous and gives itself over to impurity and greed. Sin deadens sensitivity to God’s voice.
Cross-References:
- Romans 1:24–25 – God “gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity.”
- Hebrews 3:13 – “Exhort one another every day… that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”
Discussion Questions:
- In this instance what does it mean to become “callous,” and how can sin produce that condition?
- How might Romans 1:24–25 and Hebrews 3:13 shed light on the danger of ignoring conviction?
- What are some subtle ways believers today might begin to tolerate what God calls sin?
Verses 20–21: Learning Christ
Paul shifts the focus—believers are no longer defined by the old life. They have learned Christ, meaning they’ve entered into a relationship that transforms understanding and behavior.
Cross-References:
- Philippians 3:8–10 – Paul longs “to know Christ and the power of his resurrection.”
- John 14:6 – Jesus says, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think Paul phrases it as “learning Christ” rather than “learning about Christ”? Why the distinction?
- How do Philippians 3:10 and John 14:6 help define what it means to “know” Him?
- What are some things we can do to help us stay teachable “in Christ” rather than slipping back into our old mindset?
Verses 22–24: Putting Off and Putting On
Paul uses the imagery of changing clothes—casting off the corrupt “old self” and putting on the “new self” made in God’s likeness.
Supporting Scriptures:
- Colossians 3:9–10 – “You have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self… being renewed in knowledge after the image of its creator.”
- Romans 6:6, 11–13 – “Our old self was crucified with him… consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God.”
- Galatians 5:16–17 – Walk by the Spirit and not the flesh.
Discussion Questions:
- What do you think “putting off” the old self looks like in our daily lives? Give some examples.
- According to Colossians 3:10 and Romans 6:6, what is it that enables us to actually live out this new identity?
Final Reflection:
The Christian life is an ongoing exchange—casting off sin’s influence and clothing ourselves in Christ’s character. Renewal is not self-improvement; it’s the Spirit’s transforming work through obedience and faith.