Change is an inevitable part of our human experience. We encounter it in our relationships, careers, and even within ourselves. However, the change that our focus is on today goes beyond mere external adjustments—this is the transformative power of godly change that originates from the inside out. In a world that constantly bombards us with messages of self-improvement, quick fixes, and fleeting trends, we need to anchor ourselves in the eternal truth of God’s Word. We need to understand the depth of change God desires to work within us.
The Necessity of Change
In Ephesians 4:21, the apostle Paul writes, “Surely you heard of him and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.” This verse serves as a reminder of the foundational importance of hearing and learning from Jesus, the ultimate source of truth. Our faith journey begins with recognizing our need for change and embracing the truth that Jesus offers.
We often find ourselves entangled in the web of worldly philosophies, deceptive ideologies, and self-centered desires. But to experience true transformation, we must turn our hearts toward the voice of Jesus and align ourselves with the truth found in Him. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6), and through His teachings and example, we discover the necessity of change in our lives.
Recognizing the necessity of change leads us to the first point of our sermon. We must understand that the call to change is not a mere suggestion or a casual invitation. It is a divine imperative, urging us to let go of our old ways, attitudes, and mindsets that hinder our spiritual growth. When we listen to Jesus, we open ourselves up to His transformative power, which has the potential to revolutionize every aspect of our lives. So, let us journey together and explore the power of godly change that begins with recognizing our need to learn from Jesus, the source of truth.
Putting Off the Old Self
In Ephesians 4:22-23, Paul instructs the believers, saying, “You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds.” These verses emphasize the significance of recognizing and renouncing our old sinful ways to experience godly change from the inside out.
When we come to faith in Christ, we are called to leave behind the patterns and behaviors of our former lives. The old self refers to our previous nature characterized by sinful desires, selfish ambitions, and worldly attachments. It is a nature corrupted by deceit and separated from God’s truth. However, through the redemptive work of Christ, we have the opportunity to put off this old self and be made new.
Renewing our minds is a crucial aspect of this transformation. It involves aligning our thoughts, attitudes, and perspectives with God’s Word. As we immerse ourselves in Scripture, allowing its truth to penetrate our hearts, our minds are renewed by the power of the Holy Spirit. This renewal enables us to break free from the strongholds of our former way of life and embrace a new way of thinking rooted in God’s righteousness and holiness.
As we put off the old self and renew our minds, we open ourselves up to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. This process of letting go and embracing the new leads us to experience true transformation from the inside out. Through the power of God’s Word, His Spirit empowers us to live according to His purposes and reflect the character of Christ in our daily lives. So, let us embrace the call to put off the old self and renew our minds, for it is in this process that we encounter the life-changing power of godly change.
Putting on the New Self
Verse 24 declares, “And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” This verse unveils the concept of the new self, which reflects God’s righteousness and holiness. It is an invitation for us to embrace our identity as new creations in Christ and live according to His divine nature.
Putting on the new self is not merely a superficial change in appearance but a profound transformation of our hearts, minds, and actions. It is a deliberate choice to align ourselves with God’s character and purposes. As we yield to the Holy Spirit’s work within us, we begin to bear the fruit of righteousness and exhibit the qualities that reflect God’s holiness in our relationships, words, and deeds.
In light of this truth, let us encourage one another to embrace our identity as new creations in Christ. We have been redeemed and set free from the bondage of sin and death. We are called to walk in the fullness of our new nature, empowered by the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.
Practical steps can be taken to cultivate godly characteristics in our lives. This involves daily surrender to God, allowing Him to transform our thoughts, desires, and actions. We can immerse ourselves in prayer and the study of God’s Word, seeking His guidance and wisdom. Engaging in acts of service, forgiveness, and love towards others is vital in our journey of godly change.
As we put on the new self and allow the Spirit to work within us, we witness the power of godly change from the inside out. Our lives testify to Christ’s transformative work, drawing others to experience the same life-changing power. So, let us embrace the call to put on the new self and live as God’s redeemed and transformed children, reflecting His righteousness and holiness to a world in need of His love and grace.
Conclusion
Today, we have explored the power of godly change that originates from the inside out. We have seen that the necessity of change begins with recognizing our need to hear and learn from Jesus, the source of truth. We have learned the importance of putting off the old self, renouncing our former sinful ways, and renewing our minds through the power of God’s Word. Furthermore, we have been encouraged to put on the new self, embracing our identity as new creations in Christ, reflecting His righteousness and holiness.
The power of godly change is not something we can accomplish with our strength. It is through the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, working in conjunction with the truth of God’s Word, that actual change takes place. As we actively pursue godly change, we open ourselves up to Christ’s abundant life.
Therefore, let us not remain stagnant or complacent but actively seek God’s transformative power in our lives. Let us let go of our old ways, thoughts, and habits and be open to the renewal and transformation that comes from walking in obedience to Christ. May our lives be a living testimony to the power of godly change, drawing others to experience the same life-transforming work of Christ in their own lives.
As we conclude, let us offer a prayer, seeking God’s guidance and strength to embrace the journey of godly change. May His Spirit work within us throughout the week, reminding us of the truths we have heard today. May we reflect on this message, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. May we walk in the power of God’s transformative love, bringing glory to His name in all we do.