Ephesians 4:23

And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

And {G1161} be renewed {G365} in the spirit {G4151} of your {G5216} mind {G3563};

and you must let your spirits and minds keep being renewed,

to be renewed in the spirit of your minds;

and that ye be renewed in the spirit of your mind,

Commentary

Ephesians 4:23 calls believers to a profound inner transformation: "And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;". This verse is a vital instruction for Christian living, emphasizing that true change begins not merely with outward actions, but with a fundamental shift in one's inner disposition and way of thinking.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's powerful exhortation in Ephesians 4, where he urges believers to walk in a manner worthy of their calling in Christ. Having discussed the unity of the Spirit and the diverse gifts within the church (Ephesians 4:1-16), Paul transitions to the practical implications of this new life. He contrasts the futile thinking of the Gentiles (Ephesians 4:17-19) with the transformative truth learned in Christ. Verses 22-24 form a critical triad: putting off the old man (the former way of life), being renewed in the spirit of the mind, and putting on the new man (the new creation in righteousness and holiness). This renewal is central to living out one's identity in Christ.

Key Themes

  • Inner Transformation: The primary message is that genuine Christian growth is not superficial but originates from within. It's about changing the very core of one's thought processes and attitudes.
  • Mindset Shift: The phrase "spirit of your mind" points to the governing principle of one's intellect and emotions. It's the spiritual disposition that shapes how we perceive, reason, and respond to the world.
  • Continuous Process: The Greek word for "renewed" implies an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. It's a daily, intentional yielding to God's influence.
  • New Creation Identity: This renewal is intrinsically linked to the believer's new identity in Christ, moving away from former patterns of sin towards God's righteous standards.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "renewed" is anakainoo (ἀνακαινόω), which means to make new again, to renovate, or to restore to a former good state. It suggests a qualitative change, not just a repair, but a fundamental transformation into something fresh and new. This is distinct from simply putting on new clothes; it's about changing the very fabric of who you are.

The phrase "spirit of your mind" (τῷ πνεύματι τοῦ νοὸς ὑμῶν - tō pneumati tou noos hymōn) is crucial. "Mind" (nous) refers to the intellect, understanding, and moral consciousness. "Spirit" (pneuma) in this context refers not to the Holy Spirit directly, but to the inner disposition, the animating principle, or attitude of one's mind. Thus, it's about the internal disposition or the inner man being revitalized and governed by a new, spiritual orientation, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide one's thoughts and intentions.

Practical Application

For believers today, "being renewed in the spirit of your mind" involves several practical steps:

  • Intentional Thought Life: Consciously choosing to align one's thoughts with God's truth, rather than worldly patterns. This echoes the call in Romans 12:2 to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind."
  • Immersion in Scripture: The Word of God is a primary means by which the mind is renewed, providing divine perspective and truth that reshapes our thinking.
  • Prayer and Meditation: Engaging in prayer allows for communion with God, inviting His Spirit to cleanse and redirect our thoughts. Meditating on His character and promises helps to solidify new thought patterns.
  • Yielding to the Holy Spirit: This renewal is not achieved by human effort alone, but by allowing the Holy Spirit to work within, guiding our minds and hearts. It's about consciously surrendering our will and intellect to His leading, as part of putting on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge.
  • Community and Accountability: Being in fellowship with other believers provides encouragement, correction, and shared pursuit of spiritual growth, helping to keep our minds focused on Christ.

This ongoing process of mental and spiritual renewal is essential for living a life that truly reflects our identity as followers of Christ, leading to righteous and holy conduct.

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Cross-References

  • Romans 12:2 (75 votes)

    And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

  • Romans 8:6 (58 votes)

    For to be carnally minded [is] death; but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace.

  • Psalms 51:10 (51 votes)

    Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

  • Colossians 3:10 (44 votes)

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

  • 1 Peter 1:13 (36 votes)

    ¶ Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

  • Ezekiel 36:26 (34 votes)

    A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

  • Titus 3:5 (29 votes)

    Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;