Ephesians 4:24 Explained

Verse: "And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."

Meaning and Interpretation

Ephesians 4:24 emphasizes the theological significance of transformation in a believer's life. This verse serves as an exhortation for believers to embrace their new identity in Christ. The phrase "put on the new man" signifies a conscious choice to adopt a new way of life, distinct from one’s former unregenerate state.

Insights from Commentaries

Related Bible Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." - This verse parallels the transformation emphasized in Ephesians 4:24.
• Colossians 3:10: "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him." - This verse reinforces the theme of renewal in the knowledge of God.
• Romans 6:4: "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life." - A call to live a renewed life post-conversion.
• 1 Peter 1:15-16: "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy." - Links the holiness aspect of the new man to God's nature.
• Titus 3:5: "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost." - Highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in regeneration.
• Galatians 5:17: "For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would." - Addresses the internal struggle of living according to the new self.
• Philippians 2:5: "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." - Encourages the adoption of Christ-like thinking as part of the new man.

Thematic Connections

This verse, Ephesians 4:24, can be linked to various overarching themes in Scripture, such as spiritual rebirth, moral transformation, and the pursuit of holiness. The concept of "putting on" the new man connects it to the wider narrative of Scripture concerning human identity and divine calling.

Tools for Understanding

For deeper insight into Ephesians 4:24 and its relation to other verses, one may utilize:

• A Bible concordance to find other scripture references that resonate with the themes discussed.
• Bible cross-reference guides to explore the connections between this verse and parallel teachings found in other books of the Bible.
• Cross-reference Bible study methods to engage with related passages meaningfully.

Conclusion

In summary, Ephesians 4:24 provides profound insight into the transformative work of the Gospel in the life of a believer. It encourages an active participation in holiness and righteousness as reflective of God's character. Understanding this verse is greatly enriched through the use of cross-referencing Biblical texts and engaging in thematic Bible verse connections.