Introduction: 1. When one is converted one must change. 2. The old must be put off or away and the new must be put on. 3. Ephesians 4:17-24 Paul tells the Christians at Ephesus that what they were is not what they are. I. They were…. (verses 17-19). A. Intellectually futile (verse 17). They walked in the vanity of their minds (Rom. 1:28; Titus 1:15). Their thoughts were self-centered. They may know God but they will not live it (Rom. 1:22; 2 Cor. 4:3-6). B. Hard hearted. The truth did not lead their life (Rom. 8:5-7). They may believe in the existence of God, etc. but that does not mean they let such knowledge move them to action (Rom. 1:21; 1 Tim. 4:2; Jn. 12:37-40). Remember (Acts 2:37, 41; Mt. 15:8; 13:15). We need an open and tender heart that is receptive to the truth (Acts 11:1; Ps. 119:2, 4, 9, 59). C. Living a deprived life. They were alienated from God because of their hard heart. Their life was far from being classified as moral (Mk. 7:21, 22). They were characterized as living lasciviously and in work practicing uncleanness they did what they wanted to do (Jud. 17:6; Rom. 13:13; 1 Peter 4:3; Jude 4). II. Now, they are…. (verses 20-24). A. Christ centered (Ja. 4:4; Rom. 13:14). One not only accepts the invitation of the Lord (Mt. 11:28, 29), but by dieing to self (Mt. 16:24; 1 Pet. 4:1, 2) he enthrones Christ as the center of his life (Phil 1>21; 1 Cor. 11:1). Thus, (2 Cor. 5:15). B. Christ directed. Not directed by opinion, feeling, ambition. Christ becomes the final authority (Col 3:16; Heb. 1:1, 2; Lk. 24:47). C. Changed. 1. Put off the old man-take off the filthy clothes (Rom. 6:2, 6; Col. 3:5). 2. Put on the new man which is life (Col. 3:12). Make sure that a godly change takes place in your life (1 Cor. 6:9, 10, 19, 20). Conclusion: 1. When one becomes a Christian the old man is removed and the new man is now the present man.
Entered on 10/5/2008
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