Put Off the Old Life and Put On the New Life in Christ

This association explores the radical transformation that takes place when a person turns from sin and lives under the lordship of Jesus Christ.

The Conflict Between Two Kingdoms

Although God is sovereign over all things, Satan and the forces of evil have been granted temporary permission to operate within the world. This explains the chaos, suffering and moral evil we see around us (Eph 2:1-3). The Bible consistently contrasts two ways of life: the flesh, which is marked by rebellion against God, and the new life in Christ, which is pleasing to Him. These are not merely different lifestyles but opposing spiritual realities.

The Call to Put Off and Put On

At salvation, every believer is called to put off the old, sinful life and put on the new life in Christ (Eph 4:22-24; Col 3:5-10). This means turning away from the patterns of thought, speech and behaviour that once characterised us and embracing the character and priorities of Jesus. It involves a renewed mind, one that is no longer conformed to the world but is being transformed by the Spirit (Rom 12:1-2). As we do this, we begin to walk in newness of life, no longer controlled by sin but alive to God’s power (Rom 6:2-14; 2 Cor 5:17).

Do I take the teachings of the Bible seriously enough to turn from sin and live for Him?

This transformation is not an optional extra. Scripture is clear: “If you live according to the sinful nature you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live” (Rom 8:12-14). We are also being conformed to the image of Christ, a work that begins at conversion and continues throughout the Christian life (Rom 8:29).

Living in the World but Not of It

Believers are not to love the world or the things that originate from its ungodly values (1 Jn 2:15-17). Although we remain in the world, we do not belong to it. We are therefore not bound by its standards and are able to live on a much higher level, pointing people to Jesus in both word and deed (Jn 17:14-15).

Our responsibility is to leave our life of sin and purify ourselves of everything that contaminates body and spirit (Jn 8:11; 2 Cor 7:1). Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires, replacing them with the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:19-24). Yet this is an ongoing challenge, because temptation is always present and we must exercise self-control and self-discipline, taking every thought captive to obey Christ (2 Cor 10:5).

It is our duty to deal drastically with our carnal flesh

When we do sin, we must repent, seek forgiveness and make a fresh resolve to walk as Jesus walked (1 Jn 1:9; 1 Jn 2:6). If there is no dealing with the sinful disposition and no increasing growth in righteousness, we have reason to question whether a person has truly been saved, for by the fruit of their lives we will recognize those who belong to Christ and those who do not (Mt 7:20).

This is a daily calling. Each day we should be closer to Jesus and further away from the past life. As we walk with Him, the old ways grow distant and the new life becomes more natural, more joyful and more like Christ.

Reflection and Application:

What sinful attitudes or habits do you need to consciously put off today?

How can you put on the character of Christ in your relationships, work and private life?

In what ways are you still being influenced by worldly values that need to be surrendered to God?

Who can encourage you and hold you accountable as you pursue holiness?