Old Man vs. New Man



Uploaded on 2/7/2008


...put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life
and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed
in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self,
created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.
- Ephesians 4:22-24


...put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
- Romans 13:14


Approximate running time: 2:21


Let's continue to strive to put off the old self with its lusts and desires, and put on the new man which is being renewed in righteousness and true holiness. Let us also put on the Lord Jesus Christ.


Holiness is a journey. Let's strive to be more Christlike. God bless you!



Discussion questions


1. What kind of life are you living?
A great time to evaluate your life choices and lifestyle is 'now'. What are you doing well? What can you improve? In light of Scripture, how would God evaluate your life at this point?

2. What is included in the term 'old self' ('old man')?
In Greek, the term for 'flesh' is sarx, and we see from passages such as Galatians 5, Romans 8, etc. that the flesh is contrary to (goes against) the Spirit's work. Instead of indulging in sinful things such as malice, hatred, envy, lying, adultery, lust, etc., follow the things of the Spirit. All the things that belong to the label 'old self' are things of the flesh, and these should be cast aside. In Hebrews 12, we're encouraged to toss off every sin, weight, and burden so that we can run this marathon of life as best as we can!

3. How do we put on the 'new self'?
Rely on the Holy Spirit and walk in the Spirit. Through Christ, you are a 'new creation' (2 Corinthians 5:17) -- you don't have to walk in things that are going to lead to destruction. Spend time with God, walk with Him, listen for His voice. He will help you lead a pleasing life before Him. These are a few things to do. Any investment in your spiritual walk with the Lord will not go fruitless. Pray, read God's Word, fast. Tons of options to walk as His 'new creation' and having on the 'new self'.


4. What is required when you follow after Christ?
Jesus told His disciples, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me" (Luke 9:23). Following Jesus is a life of sacrifice. Turn from sin, and follow Him. If we love Him, we will keep His commandments -- so in following Christ, pray for increased obedience, increased love, and eyes to see the Lord working. It's worth the sacrifice to follow after Jesus.



Credits

Speaker & Juggler: Chris Fowler

Music: Sonstruck, "Seven" (used with permission)

Captions and Subtitles: S. Franklin, M. Oberholster