Ephesians 4:22–24; Colossians 3:5–10; Romans 12:1–2; 2 Corinthians 5:17
Introduction: Christianity Is Not Behavior Modification, It Is Transformation
One of the greatest misconceptions about Christianity is that it is merely about becoming a “better person.” Scripture makes it clear that the gospel is not about polishing the old life but receiving an entirely new one.
The Christian life is a transformed life—a decisive break from the old way of living and a conscious embrace of a new identity in Christ. Salvation is not only about forgiveness of sins; it is about newness of life.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.”
— 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NKJV)
This transformation is both instant (at salvation) and progressive (through daily sanctification). The apostle Paul describes it vividly as putting off the old self and putting on the new.
Understanding the “Old Self”
The “old self” (or “old man”) represents who we were before Christ—our former identity shaped by sin, self-rule, and separation from God.
“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.”
— Ephesians 4:22 (NIV)
Characteristics of the Old Life
Scripture does not romanticize the old life. It exposes it honestly:
Sinful patterns and habits
Corrupt desires
Self-centered living
Spiritual ignorance
Alienation from God
Paul further explains this in Colossians:
“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
— Colossians 3:5 (NIV)
The old life is not something we manage or coexist with; it is something we must renounce.
Putting Off the Old: A Deliberate Act of Obedience
Putting off the old self is intentional. While salvation is God’s work, sanctification involves our active cooperation with the Holy Spirit.
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”
— Colossians 3:8 (NIV)
What “Putting Off” Involves
Repentance – Turning away from sin with godly sorrow
Renunciation – Consciously rejecting former sinful patterns
Renewal of thinking – Changing how we see sin, self, and God
Accountability – Walking in the light with other believers
Putting off the old is not a one-time event. It is a daily discipline, empowered by grace.
Putting On the New: Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Christianity does not leave us empty. After putting off the old, we are called to put on the new.
“And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
— Ephesians 4:24 (NIV)
The new self is not self-created; it is God-created. It reflects His character and purposes.
What the New Life Looks Like
Paul gives a beautiful description:
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
— Colossians 3:12 (NIV)
The new life is marked by:
Christlike character
Obedience from the heart
Love for God and people
A growing hatred for sin
A desire for holiness
Transformation Begins in the Mind
True transformation does not start with outward actions—it begins in the mind.
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
— Romans 12:2 (NIV)
A renewed mind:
Thinks biblically
Values what God values
Rejects worldly patterns
Submits daily to God’s will
This renewal happens through Scripture, prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit.
Living the Transformed Life Daily
Living a transformed life means allowing Christ to influence every area of life—speech, relationships, work, decisions, and priorities.
“Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.”
— Galatians 5:24 (NIV)
A transformed life:
Reflects Christ publicly and privately
Bears fruit that glorifies God
Serves as a witness to the world
Draws others to the gospel
This is central to evangelism and mission. The world may question our message, but it cannot ignore a changed life.
A Missional Perspective: Transformed Lives Transform Others
Evangelism is most powerful when the gospel is seen as well as heard.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
A transformed believer becomes:
A living testimony
A vessel of grace
A messenger of hope
A visible expression of the gospel
God uses transformed lives to advance His mission in families, communities, and nations.
Reflection Questions
What aspects of my old life is God calling me to consciously put off?
Are there habits, attitudes, or relationships that still reflect my former way of living?
In what ways am I intentionally “putting on” the new life in Christ?
How does my daily life reflect the transformation Christ has brought?
How can my transformed life serve as a witness to others?
Prayer Focus
- Prayer for Repentance and Renewal
Lord, search my heart and reveal any remnants of the old life that do not please You. Grant me grace to turn away completely. - Prayer for Transformation
Father, renew my mind by Your Word and Spirit. Help me to live out my new identity in Christ daily. - Prayer for Holy Living
Lord, clothe me with compassion, humility, love, and righteousness. Let my life reflect Your holiness. - Prayer for Missional Impact
Use my transformed life as a testimony that draws others to Christ. Let Your light shine through me.
Closing Exhortation
The call to follow Christ is a call to die to the old and live in the new. This is not achieved by human effort but by grace through faith, sustained by daily surrender.
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”
— Galatians 2:20 (NIV)
May our lives continually declare the transforming power of the gospel—until Christ is known, followed, and glorified everywhere.
Amen.