Putting Off the Old Man

Ephesians 4:22

Introduction: Wouldn’t it be great if right at the moment of salvation we were free of the former problems of the flesh?

But, we’re not are we?

The flesh is probably our greatest nemesis!

I. YOU ARETO PUT OFF THE OLD MAN AND TO DO IT WITH PURPOSE.

Now, the image that Paul uses linguistically here, is one of taking off a garment.

A. You are to take it off.

B. You make a decision and do it.

C. You never give it a second thought.

Fall is almost upon us, and with it crisp, cool, mornings. On certain of those mornings you’ll find yourself wearing a sweater or even a jacket. But, as the day wears on, and the temperature climbs, you’ll find that you will need to take off that garment.

Now, if you have no physical impairment that bars you from removing the garment, would not people think you to be quite mad if you were to claim that you could not remove it?

There is no difference with the old man!

You are to remove it!

II. YOU ARE TO PUT OFF THE OLD MAN, WHICH IS WITHIN YOUR CONTROL.

A. The Devil has nothing to do with it. (He doesn’t make you keep it on.)

B. It’s not because you can’t or are powerless to take it off.

Now I’m going to rock the boat a bit!

C. You do not need a 12 step program.

D. You do not need a higher power for you are already in the highest power. (The body of Christ)

E. God is not going to do it for you.

F. You do it yourself, because you are a new creation in Christ (2 Cor.5:17) and He gives you all the strength you will ever need to do it. (Phil.4:13)

III. YOU ARE TO PUT OFF THE OLD MAN, WHICH BEGINS IN THE MIND. (Romans 12:1-2)

Even the in Romans seven, where Paul describes the battle that ensues within the flesh, we find these final words, “So then with my mind I myself serve the law of God”. Vs.25

A. Fill your mind with good. (Phil.4:8-9)

1) Think good things. Vs.8

2) Find a good example to mimic. Vs.9

B. Guard your thoughts. (Eph.6:17-18)

Note: The helmet of salvation is mentioned in conjunction with the sword of the spirit, and prayer.

1) Constantly remind yourself that you are a Christian and you serve the Lord Christ.

2) Replace the old wicked thoughts and old ways with the Word of God.

3) Pray without ceasing, for clarity of mind and be vigilant.

Conclusion: Everyone that continues in the practice of sin, is weak in the mind, and is finding excuses not to deal with the problem of the old man.

Paul’s remedy is God’s remedy…

Put off the old man!