A note from our pastor:

“That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;”

Ephesians 4:22

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In Ephesians 4:22, the Apostle transitions from the importance of learning the things of Christ to the application of knowledge. For each disciple the application is going to look different based on many factors. However, the basic approach of applying the truth of the teachings of Jesus Christ is the same.

First, the word conversation as used by the Apostle means something similar to a way of living or a pattern of conduct. This certainly encompasses the way we talk and speak with one another, but has a larger meaning than just speech.

Second, the analogy used in this verse is comparing our old way of living (without the knowledge of Christ) to dirty clothes. Clothes that have been worked in and need to be removed in order for the person wearing them to be clean.

Thus, through this analogy, the Apostle was telling his readers to apply the knowledge of Jesus Christ to your life and remove habits and behaviors based in sin. Separate yourselves from things filled with spite, hate, deceit, and false testimony.

An important point about this verse to remember is our sinful nature will not be put away permanently until the time of the resurrection. As wonderful as it would be for us to be without sin, the reality is, sin is always present. Therefore, the instruction from the Apostle is not for us to be sinless, but rather, for us to choose daily to walk in the things of Christ and not the things of sin.

If you know Christ as grace and love, then walk as Christ in grace and love.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah