Ephesians 4:24

KJV

And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} that ye put on {G1746} the new {G2537} man {G444}, which {G3588} after {G2596} God {G2316} is created {G2936} in {G1722} righteousness {G1343} and {G2532} true {G225} holiness {G3742}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and clothe yourselves with the new nature created to be godly, which expresses itself in the righteousness and holiness that flow from the truth.

Berean Standard Bible

and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

American Standard Version

and put on the new man, that after God hath been created in righteousness and holiness of truth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Ephesians 4:24 is a pivotal command for believers to actively embrace their transformed identity in Christ, an identity divinely created in the very likeness of God. It calls for a conscious "putting on" of a character marked by genuine righteousness and true holiness, distinguishing the transformed life from the former, corrupt ways of the world and reflecting the profound spiritual recreation experienced by those united with Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The Apostle Paul transitions in [Ephesians 4](/ephesians/4 "Ephesians 4 - Unity and New Life in Christ") from the profound theological exposition of chapters 1-3 to practical instruction for Christian living. Following his emphasis on the unity of the Spirit and the diverse gifts for building up the body of Christ in [Ephesians 4:1-16](/ephesians/4-1-16 "Ephesians 4:1-16 - Unity in the Body of Christ"), Paul introduces a sharp contrast between the "old man" and the "new man." Specifically, [Ephesians 4:17-19](/ephesians/4-17-19 "Ephesians 4:17-19 - The Futility of the Old Life") describes the futile and morally corrupt lifestyle of the Gentiles, characterized by darkened understanding and hardness of heart. This sets the stage for the exhortation in [Ephesians 4:22](/ephesians/4-22 "Ephesians 4:22 - Putting Off the Old Man") to "put off" the old, corrupt self. Ephesians 4:24 then serves as the positive counterpart, commanding believers to "put on" the new, divinely created self, thereby completing the imagery of a radical change in identity and conduct.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's letter is addressed to the church in Ephesus, a significant city in the Roman province of Asia, known for its diverse religious landscape, including the prominent cult of Artemis (Diana). Many Ephesian believers would have come from pagan backgrounds, where moral standards differed significantly from those of the emerging Christian community. The imagery of "putting on" and "putting off" clothing was a common metaphor in the ancient world, often used in philosophical discourse or religious initiation rites to signify a change in status, identity, or way of life. By employing this metaphor, Paul effectively communicates the radical break from their former pagan practices and the active embrace of a distinct, Christ-like lifestyle that was counter-cultural in their society. This call to transformation was essential for the nascent Christian community to distinguish itself from the surrounding paganism.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in Ephesians and Pauline theology. Firstly, the theme of **Spiritual Transformation** is central, highlighting that Christian conversion is not merely a change of belief but a profound, divinely initiated renewal of one's entire being. Secondly, the concept of **New Creation** is explicitly stated, as the "new man" is "created after God," echoing the original creation account in [Genesis 1](/genesis/1 "Genesis 1 - The Creation Account") and emphasizing that believers are "new creatures" in Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")). This underscores God's active role in our sanctification. Lastly, the verse highlights the inseparable link between **Theology and Ethics**, demonstrating that genuine faith inevitably leads to transformed conduct. The characteristics of "righteousness and true holiness" are not optional but essential expressions of this new identity, aligning the believer's life with God's moral character.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **put on (Greek, _endýō'_):** This verb signifies to invest with clothing, literally or figuratively. In this context, it is a powerful metaphor for actively embracing and embodying a new identity and way of life. It implies a deliberate, conscious act of adopting the characteristics of the "new man" as one would put on a garment, signifying an outward manifestation of an inward spiritual reality.
* **new (Greek, _kainós'_):** This adjective denotes something new in quality, freshness, or superiority, rather than merely new in time (for which _néos_ would be used). It emphasizes that the "new man" is not simply a refreshed version of the old self but a fundamentally different, superior kind of existence, transformed in nature and character by divine intervention.
* **created (Greek, _ktízō'_):** This verb means to fabricate or found, implying an original act of formation. Here, it highlights that the "new man" is not a self-improvement project or a human achievement but a divine work, a spiritual recreation initiated and accomplished by God, echoing His original act of creation and emphasizing His proprietorship over this new identity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And that ye put on the new man":** This clause presents a direct and active command to believers. The phrase "put on" is a vivid metaphor, urging them to consciously and intentionally embrace and embody their transformed identity in Christ. It signifies a decisive choice to manifest the characteristics of this new spiritual reality, much like donning a fresh set of clothes to reflect a new status or role. This is not a passive reception but an active engagement with the new life given by God.
* **"which after God is created":** This crucial phrase clarifies the origin and nature of the "new man." It is not a self-generated identity but one that is divinely fashioned. The Greek phrase _katá Theon_ ("after God" or "according to God") indicates that this new humanity is created in conformity with God's own likeness, character, and moral standards, reflecting His image. This emphasizes that the transformation is a spiritual recreation, a work of God that restores humanity to its intended, original design.
* **"in righteousness and true holiness":** These two qualities define the essential characteristics of the "new man" and the very nature of this divine creation. "Righteousness" (Greek: _dikaiosýnē_) refers to moral rectitude, right conduct, and conformity to God's just character in all relationships, encompassing both our standing before God and our ethical behavior towards others. "True holiness" (Greek: _alḗtheia hosiótēs_) denotes genuine piety, moral purity, and reverence specifically toward God, distinguishing it from superficial or merely external religious observance. The addition of "true" emphasizes the authenticity and inward sincerity of this spiritual purity, which is an intrinsic part of the divinely created new self.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful **literary devices** in this verse to convey his profound theological and practical message. The most prominent is **Metaphor**, specifically the **clothing metaphor** of "putting on" the new man. This vivid imagery effectively communicates the idea of a radical change in identity and behavior, much like changing one's garments signifies a change in role or status. It implies a conscious, volitional act on the part of the believer to adopt the characteristics of their new spiritual reality. The phrase "created in righteousness and true holiness" utilizes **Allusion** to the Genesis creation account, where humanity was originally created in God's image ([Genesis 1:26-27](/genesis/1-26-27 "Genesis 1:26-27 - Humanity Created in God's Image")). This highlights the concept of spiritual **Recreation**, emphasizing that the transformation in Christ is not mere self-improvement but a divine work that restores humanity to its intended, God-like moral state. The pairing of "righteousness and true holiness" forms a **Hendiatris**, where two distinct but complementary ideas are used to express a single, comprehensive concept of moral and spiritual purity. The use of the adjective "true" before "holiness" serves as an **Emphasis**, distinguishing genuine, inward piety from any superficial or hypocritical outward display.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly connects to the broader biblical narrative of redemption and sanctification. It underscores the concept of humanity's original creation in God's image, which was marred by the Fall, and the subsequent restoration and renewal offered through Christ. The "new man" is not simply a morally improved version of the old self but a divinely re-created being, reflecting God's own character of righteousness and holiness. This transformation is a work of grace, initiated by God, but it demands an active response from the believer to live out this new identity. It highlights the inseparable link between theological truth (what God has done in Christ) and ethical living (how believers are to respond), demonstrating that true faith always manifests in transformed conduct. This new creation is a foretaste of the eschatological reality where believers will be fully conformed to Christ's image.

* [Colossians 3:10](/colossians/3-10 "Colossians 3:10 - Putting on the New Self")
* [2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")
* [Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Newness of Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Ephesians 4:24 is not merely a theological statement but a powerful call to daily, intentional living. "Putting on the new man" is an ongoing spiritual discipline, a conscious choice to align our thoughts, words, and actions with the character of Christ. It means actively shedding the old habits, attitudes, and desires that belong to our former, unredeemed self and embracing the virtues of righteousness and true holiness. This transformation is empowered by the Holy Spirit, but it requires our active participation—our willingness to submit to God's will, to cultivate godly habits, and to pursue moral purity in every area of life. It challenges us to live authentically, allowing our inner spiritual reality to be consistently expressed in our outward conduct, thereby reflecting the image of our Creator to a watching world, and demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to more intentionally "put on" the new man, replacing old patterns with Christ-like virtues?**
* **How does the understanding that your new identity is "created after God" impact your view of your own potential for holiness and moral excellence?**
* **What practical steps can you take this week to cultivate righteousness and true holiness in your daily interactions, decisions, and inner thoughts?**

### FAQ
**Is "putting on the new man" a one-time event or an ongoing process?**

Answer: While the initial spiritual transformation (regeneration) is a one-time event where we are made a "new creature" in Christ ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), "putting on the new man" as described in [Ephesians 4:24](/ephesians/4-24 "Ephesians 4:24 - Putting on the New Man") is an ongoing, daily process of sanctification. It involves continually choosing to live out the new identity we have received, shedding old habits and embracing Christ-like virtues. This is often referred to as progressive sanctification, where believers grow in conformity to the image of Christ throughout their lives ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation by Renewing Your Mind")).

**What is the difference between "righteousness" and "true holiness" in this verse?**

Answer: While closely related and often used together, "righteousness" (Greek: _dikaiosýnē_) generally refers to right conduct and right standing, particularly in relation to God's law and justice. It encompasses our moral integrity and just dealings with others, reflecting God's perfect standard of right. "True holiness" (Greek: _alḗtheia hosiótēs_) emphasizes genuine piety, moral purity, and devotion specifically towards God, distinguishing it from mere outward religious observance or hypocrisy. The addition of "true" underscores the authenticity and inward sincerity of this devotion. Together, they describe the comprehensive moral and spiritual character of the "new man," reflecting both vertical (God-ward) and horizontal (man-ward) dimensions of a transformed life.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Ephesians 4:24 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Jesus Christ. He is the quintessential "new man," the perfect image of God, in whom true righteousness and holiness are perfectly embodied. Humanity was originally created in God's image ([Genesis 1:27](/genesis/1-27 "Genesis 1:27 - Humanity Created in God's Image")), but this image was marred by sin. Christ, as the "last Adam" ([1 Corinthians 15:45](/1_corinthians/15-45 "1 Corinthians 15:45 - The Last Adam")), perfectly restores and redefines what it means to be human "after God." Through His atoning work on the cross, believers are not only forgiven but are also spiritually "created in Christ Jesus unto good works" ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")). The "new man" we are called to put on is, in essence, Christ Himself, for we are called to "put on the Lord Jesus Christ" ([Romans 13:14](/romans/13-14 "Romans 13:14 - Put on the Lord Jesus Christ")) and to be conformed to His image ([Romans 8:29](/romans/8-29 "Romans 8:29 - Conformed to the Image of His Son")). Therefore, living in righteousness and true holiness is not merely a moral endeavor but a participation in the very life and character of Christ, who is our righteousness ([1 Corinthians 1:30](/1_corinthians/1-30 "1 Corinthians 1:30 - Christ Our Righteousness")) and the source of all true holiness, enabling us to live as God intended.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 3:10

And have put on the new [man], which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

Colossians 3:14

And above all these things [put on] charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Romans 13:14

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

Ephesians 2:10

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 6:11

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

Romans 6:4

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.