Put Off the Old Self: Understanding Ephesians 4:22

The Old Self in Ephesians 4:22

In Ephesians 4:22, Paul refers to "the old self" as something that needs to be put off by the Ephesians. This concept of the old self represents our sinful nature, the part of us that is inclined towards sinful desires and actions. It is the part of us that is corrupt and prone to deceitful lusts.

Explanation of the Old Self

The old man, as described by the apostle Paul in this epistle, symbolizes the inner self that is separated from God due to sin. Paul reminds the Ephesians that they have all sinned and fallen short of God's glory, and therefore need to discard their old, sinful nature.

As believers in Christ, Paul exhorts the Ephesians to abandon their old ways and embrace the new life they have in Christ. The old self is characterized by its corruptibility and susceptibility to sin, while the new self in Christ is incorruptible and redeemed through His sacrifice.