Ephesians 4 part 2

The Christian life is a profound journey of transformation, involving "putting off the old man" and "putting on the new" (Ephesians 4:22-24, Colossians 3:9-10). This is not just a change in behavior, but a deep spiritual renewal that begins in the heart. We are called to shed old ways, "corrupt according to the deceitful lusts" (Ephesians 4:22), and embrace the "new man who was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness" (Ephesians 4:24). This process constantly renews our knowledge in God's image (Colossians 3:10), transforming our desires and perspectives, and ultimately, how we live our faith. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."

One of the most immediate and observable indicators of this inner transformation is found in our language. "For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matthew 12:34); thus, our words serve as a direct reflection of what truly resides within us. The tongue, though a "little member," can boast great things, capable of setting "on fire the course of nature" (James 3:5-6). It possesses immense power—for good or for ill—as "death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 18:21). When we allow the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts, our language shifts from corrupt communication to speech that builds up and gives grace to the hearers. "Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers" (Ephesians 4:29). This commitment to edifying language is not only uplifting for us individually but is a vital force for unity and growth within the body of Christ, strengthening relationships and reflecting the character of God to a watching world. "Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one" (Colossians 4:6).