PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN

PUTTING OFF THE OLD MAN

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Ephesians 4:17-24

Key Verse: “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts.” — Ephesians 4:22 (KJV)

Supporting Texts: Romans 6:6-14; Colossians 3:5-10; Romans 12:1-2; Galatians 5:16-24; 2 Corinthians 5:17; James 1:21-22; Ephesians 4:25-32.

Description: This sermon teaches believers how to abandon the sinful patterns of their former lives and embrace the new life of righteousness and holiness in Christ.

INTRODUCTION

Every genuine encounter with Jesus Christ should produce a change in the life of a believer. When we receive Christ, we are called out of the dominion of sin into a new life of righteousness. God does not save us merely to change our religious identity; He saves us to transform our character, attitudes, habits and conduct. We cannot continue living according to the old nature and expect to enjoy the fullness of our new life in Christ.

In Ephesians 4:22, Apostle Paul commands believers to put off the old man, which is corrupted according to deceitful lusts. The expression “old man” refers to our former way of life under the influence of sin. It includes ungodly desires, destructive habits, wrong attitudes and patterns of behaviour that contradict God's Word. To put off the old man means to reject these former ways and refuse to allow them to control our lives.

Putting off the old man requires repentance, discipline, faith and dependence on the Holy Spirit. We must not only stop doing what is wrong; we must also allow God to renew our minds and develop Christlike character in us. As we submit to God's Word, we learn to put away the old habits and embrace the new life that honours Jesus Christ.

1. RECOGNISE THE OLD MAN AND HIS DESTRUCTIVE NATURE

We cannot put off what we refuse to acknowledge. The first step towards change is recognising the sinful patterns that once controlled our lives. Some people want the blessings of Christianity without surrendering the habits that contradict the Christian faith. But genuine transformation begins when we honestly examine ourselves before God.

The old man represents the former way of living that is governed by sinful desires rather than the will of God. We must recognise its influence and make a firm decision not to return to the practices from which Christ has delivered us.

a. The old man is associated with our former sinful life (Ephesians 4:22)

Paul describes the old man as corrupted according to deceitful lusts. These desires promise satisfaction but often produce bondage, regret and spiritual damage.

Sin can present itself as harmless pleasure, personal freedom or an acceptable habit. Yet anything that leads us away from God's will threatens our spiritual growth. We must learn to recognise the difference between what appeals to the flesh and what pleases God.

b. The old man is crucified with Christ (Romans 6:6)

“Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” — Romans 6:6 (KJV)

Through Christ's death, believers have been given a new position concerning sin. We are no longer required to remain under its dominion. The power of sin has been decisively challenged through the work of Christ.

This does not mean temptation disappears immediately. It means we must no longer treat sin as our master. Through Christ, we can resist temptation and choose obedience.

c. The old man promotes selfish desires (James 1:14-15)

James explains that people are tempted when they are drawn away by their own desires. When sinful desires are entertained, they can lead to sinful actions and destructive consequences.

We must deal with wrong desires before they become established habits. Do not feed thoughts that encourage envy, immorality, greed or hatred. Submit your desires to God and ask Him for the strength to choose what is right.

d. The old man cannot produce a life pleasing to God (Romans 8:7-8)

Paul explains that the carnal mind is hostile to God and cannot submit to His law. The old nature resists divine authority and seeks to follow its own preferences.

We cannot overcome this condition through human determination alone. We need God's grace and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. As we yield to Him, we learn to reject the desires of the flesh and walk in obedience.

Biblical Example: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-24)

The younger son pursued his desires without regard for his father's wisdom. His choices led him into poverty and disgrace. When he came to himself, he recognised his condition and decided to return home. His story teaches us that change begins with an honest recognition of our condition and a decision to turn back to the Father.

2. REPENT OF THE SINS OF THE OLD LIFE

Putting off the old man requires more than regret over past mistakes. It requires repentance—a sincere turning away from sin towards God. We must stop defending what God condemns and begin taking responsibility for our actions.

Repentance is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of humility and faith. God is willing to forgive those who genuinely turn to Him, and His grace empowers us to begin living differently.

a. Confess your sins honestly (1 John 1:9)

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” — 1 John 1:9 (KJV)

God invites us to confess our sins rather than hide or excuse them. Confession means agreeing with God about what is wrong and acknowledging our need for His forgiveness.

Do not blame other people for every wrong decision. Take responsibility before God, receive His forgiveness and seek to make things right where possible.

b. Turn away from unrighteousness (Proverbs 28:13)

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” — Proverbs 28:13 (KJV)

The Scripture connects mercy with confession and forsaking sin. True repentance involves a change of direction, not merely sorrow over the consequences of wrongdoing.

If a habit is drawing you away from God, take practical steps to abandon it. Establish healthy boundaries, seek godly accountability and avoid situations that repeatedly lead you into temptation.

c. Receive God's cleansing through Christ (1 Corinthians 6:11)

Paul reminds the Corinthians that some of them had formerly lived in sinful ways, but they had been washed, sanctified and justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God.

Your past does not have to define your future. God's grace can cleanse, restore and establish you in a new way of living. Do not continue to condemn yourself after genuine repentance; receive God's forgiveness and walk in the new life He provides.

d. Produce fruits worthy of repentance (Matthew 3:8)

John the Baptist called people to demonstrate repentance through their actions. Genuine change should become visible in our conduct.

If you have been dishonest, practise truthfulness. If you have been cruel, begin to treat people with kindness. If you have been irresponsible, take steps towards faithfulness. Repentance becomes credible when it produces a changed life.

Biblical Example: Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1-10)

After encountering Jesus, Zacchaeus committed himself to giving to the poor and making restitution to those he had defrauded. His response showed that repentance affected his actions. His example teaches us that putting off the old man must lead to practical changes in how we live and treat others.

3. PUT AWAY THE WORKS OF THE FLESH

Putting off the old man requires us to reject the practices that arise from the sinful nature. These may include sexual immorality, greed, anger, jealousy, drunkenness, dishonesty and other behaviours that contradict God's Word.

We must not excuse these practices simply because they are common in society. God calls His people to holiness. Through the Holy Spirit, we can resist sinful desires and cultivate habits that honour Him.

a. Put away sexual immorality and impurity (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4)

God calls believers to sanctification and sexual purity. Our bodies belong to Him and should be treated with honour.

Reject pornography, immoral relationships and every practice that defiles the body or mind. Set wise boundaries and seek help when you are struggling. God calls you to live in purity.

b. Put away anger, bitterness and malice (Ephesians 4:31-32)

Paul commands believers to put away bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, evil speaking and malice. These attitudes damage relationships and weaken fellowship.

Do not allow an offence to become a permanent residence in your heart. Choose forgiveness, speak truth with love and seek reconciliation where possible. Let the grace you have received from God shape how you treat others.

c. Put away lying and dishonesty (Colossians 3:9)

“Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds.” — Colossians 3:9 (KJV)

Dishonesty belongs to the old way of life. A believer must be truthful in speech, business, relationships and ministry. Deceit may offer temporary advantage, but it damages trust and dishonours God.

Make honesty your standard, even when telling the truth is uncomfortable. A truthful life brings honour to Christ and builds healthy relationships.

d. Put away greed and covetousness (Colossians 3:5)

Paul includes covetousness among the sins believers must put to death. Greed makes people value possessions above obedience, relationships and spiritual responsibilities.

Learn contentment and practise generosity. Work diligently, manage your resources wisely and refuse to pursue wealth through dishonest means. Let God, not material possessions, determine the direction of your life.

Biblical Example: Joseph in Potiphar's House (Genesis 39:7-12)

Joseph rejected the repeated advances of Potiphar's wife because he feared God and understood the seriousness of sin. He chose to flee rather than compromise his integrity. His example teaches us that putting off the old man sometimes requires decisive action and a willingness to escape temptation.

4. RENEW YOUR MIND TO SUPPORT YOUR NEW LIFE

Putting off the old man is not only about stopping wrong actions. It also involves changing the thinking that supports those actions. If our minds remain filled with the old patterns, we may repeatedly return to the same sins.

God calls us to renew our minds through His Word. As our thinking changes, we begin to see ourselves, other people and life's challenges according to God's truth.

a. Reject the world's pattern of thinking (Romans 12:2)

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind...” — Romans 12:2a (KJV)

The world often promotes values that conflict with God's Word. If we accept these ideas without discernment, they can influence our attitudes and behaviour.

Choose God's truth above popular opinion. Do not allow society to define what is acceptable when Scripture clearly teaches otherwise. Let God's Word establish your convictions.

b. Replace sinful thoughts with godly thoughts (Philippians 4:8)

Paul instructs believers to think about what is true, honest, just, pure, lovely and worthy of praise. Our thoughts influence our attitudes and actions.

Do not continually feed your mind with hatred, impurity, envy or destructive imaginations. Fill your mind with Scripture and things that encourage faith, purity and wisdom.

c. Bring every thought under Christ's authority (2 Corinthians 10:5)

Paul teaches believers to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. This requires us to examine our thoughts instead of accepting every idea that enters our minds.

When a thought encourages sin or contradicts God's truth, reject it. Remind yourself of Scripture and choose the response that honours Christ.

d. Meditate on God's Word continually (Joshua 1:8)

God instructed Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night and to observe what was written in it. Meditation was intended to shape his conduct, not merely increase his knowledge.

Make Scripture part of your daily life. Read it, reflect on it, memorise it and practise it. God's truth will help you recognise temptation and make godly decisions.

Biblical Example: Daniel (Daniel 1:8-17)

Daniel purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the king's food and wine. He remained faithful to his convictions despite living in a foreign culture. His example shows that a renewed mind helps a believer stand firm when surrounded by pressure to compromise.

5. WALK IN THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Putting off the old man cannot be accomplished by determination alone. We need the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, guide us and produce godly character within us. God has not called us to fight the battle against sin in our own strength.

As we yield to the Spirit, He helps us resist the desires of the flesh and develop the fruit of a transformed life. Our responsibility is to remain surrendered, obey His leading and take practical steps away from sin.

a. Walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16)

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” — Galatians 5:16 (KJV)

Walking in the Spirit involves depending on God's presence and direction in daily life. We must not give sinful desires the freedom to control our choices.

Develop a life of prayer, Scripture meditation and obedience. When temptation comes, seek God's help and choose the path that pleases Him.

b. Put the deeds of the body to death (Romans 8:13)

Paul teaches that believers must put to death the deeds of the body through the Spirit. This means refusing to nurture sinful practices and relying on God's power to overcome them.

Do not make peace with destructive habits. Take practical action, seek accountability and remain committed to obedience. God's Spirit empowers us to live differently.

c. Develop the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23)

The fruit of the Spirit includes love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. These qualities reflect the character God desires to develop in His people.

As the old habits are put away, cultivate the fruit of the Spirit. Practise patience when provoked, kindness when dealing with difficult people and self-control when tempted. Spiritual maturity should become visible in daily conduct.

d. Depend on God's grace for victory (2 Corinthians 12:9)

God told Paul that His grace was sufficient for him and that His strength was made perfect in weakness. This reminds us that divine help is available when our own strength is insufficient.

Do not surrender to despair when you struggle. Turn to God, receive His grace and continue pursuing holiness. Dependence on God does not excuse carelessness; it empowers faithful effort.

Biblical Example: Peter After Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41)

Peter once denied Jesus out of fear, but after the coming of the Holy Spirit, he boldly proclaimed the gospel before a crowd. His transformation demonstrates how God can strengthen His people to overcome former weaknesses and fulfil His purpose.

6. PUT ON THE NEW MAN AND MAINTAIN YOUR NEW LIFE

Putting off the old man must be accompanied by putting on the new man. God does not call us merely to abandon sin; He calls us to live in righteousness, holiness, love and truth. The Christian life involves replacing old patterns with new habits that reflect Christ.

This transformation requires daily commitment. We must guard against returning to former ways and remain devoted to the practices that strengthen our faith. As we continue in Christ, our lives should increasingly display the evidence of our new identity.

a. Put on righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24)

Paul describes the new man as created after God in righteousness and true holiness. This means that our new life should reflect God's character.

Choose what is right even when it is inconvenient. Practise honesty, purity and faithfulness in public and private. Let holiness become a daily commitment rather than an occasional religious expression.

b. Put on kindness and forgiveness (Colossians 3:12-13)

Paul calls believers to put on kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering and forgiveness. These qualities are essential to a Christ-centred life.

Be willing to forgive those who offend you and treat others with compassion. You may need wise boundaries in some relationships, but do not allow bitterness to govern your heart.

c. Walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4)

Through Christ, believers are called to walk in newness of life. Our daily conduct should reflect the change God has brought about in us.

Develop habits that strengthen your faith. Maintain prayer, study Scripture, participate in Christian fellowship and serve others faithfully. Consistent obedience helps establish a stable Christian life.

d. Stand firm against returning to old habits (Galatians 5:1)

Paul teaches that Christ has made us free and calls us to stand firm in that freedom. We must not willingly return to the bondage from which Christ has delivered us.

Be watchful about situations that repeatedly lead you into sin. Seek godly support when necessary and remember the truth of God's Word. Your past does not have to control your future in Christ.

Biblical Example: The Transformed Life of Paul (Acts 9:1-22)

Paul once persecuted the followers of Jesus, but his encounter with Christ changed his direction. He became a preacher of the gospel he had once opposed. His life demonstrates that God's grace can transform a person's purpose, conduct and service.

CONCLUSION

Putting off the old man is an essential part of Christian growth. It requires us to recognise sinful patterns, repent sincerely, reject the works of the flesh, renew our minds and depend on the Holy Spirit. God has provided new life through Jesus Christ, and we must no longer allow the habits of our former life to control us. As we surrender to His Word and Spirit, we can grow in righteousness, holiness and Christlike character.

Make a firm decision today to put away everything that dishonours God. Identify the habits you need to abandon and take practical steps towards change. Do not rely on willpower alone; depend on the Holy Spirit and remain faithful to God's Word. Put off the old man and put on the new man daily. Let your conduct demonstrate that Christ has made you a new creation.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Father, help me put off the old man in Jesus name.

2. Lord, deliver me from every sinful habit in Jesus name.

3. Father, give me a heart of true repentance in Jesus name.

4. Lord, renew my mind through Your Word in Jesus name.

5. Holy Spirit, strengthen me against temptation in Jesus name.

6. Father, uproot bitterness and pride from my heart in Jesus name.

7. Lord, help me walk in purity and holiness in Jesus name.

8. Father, fill me with the fruit of the Spirit in Jesus name.

9. Lord, keep me from returning to my old ways in Jesus name.

10. Father, let my life reflect Christ daily in Jesus name.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS

1. You are free from the dominion of sin in the mighty name of Jesus.

2. You will overcome every ungodly habit in the mighty name of Jesus.

3. Your mind is being renewed by God's Word in the mighty name of Jesus.

4. You will walk in purity and holiness in the mighty name of Jesus.

5. The Holy Spirit will strengthen you against temptation in the mighty name of Jesus.

6. Bitterness and pride will not rule your heart in the mighty name of Jesus.

7. You will grow in the fruit of the Spirit in the mighty name of Jesus.

8. You will not return to your former sinful ways in the mighty name of Jesus.

9. Your life will reflect the character of Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.

10. You will walk faithfully in your new life in Christ in the mighty name of Jesus.