In Ephesians 4:17–24, the apostle Paul calls believers to leave behind their former way of life and live according to the new identity they have received in Jesus Christ. Sin affects our thinking, desires, and conduct, but those who belong to Christ are no longer under its rightful dominion. The old life must be left behind because Christ has made us new.
This transformation does not begin with human effort. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus Christ has accomplished what sinners could never achieve for themselves. The Savior who justifies us also sanctifies us, renewing our minds through His Word and Spirit and teaching us to live in righteousness and holiness.
As we grow in Christ, we are called to recognize sinful patterns, respond with genuine repentance, and help one another walk faithfully. What old habits are we still protecting? How can our growth in holiness serve the church around us? Listen to this sermon and consider how God's grace calls us to live as those who are no longer who we were.