Ephesians 4:17-24 - Appeal For New Behavior

¹⁷ This I say therefore, and testify (affirm) in the Lord, that you no longer walk as the nations also walk, in the vanity (futility) (depravity) of their mind (thinking). ¹⁸ They are darkened (blinded) (obscured) in their understanding, alienated from the life of God, because of the ignorance that is in them, because of the hardening of their heart. ¹⁹ They are past feeling. They have given themselves over to loose conduct, to work all uncleanness with greediness (a lust for more).

²⁰ But you did not learn Christ that way. ²¹ You learned him and were taught by him just as truth is in Jesus. ²² You put away your former way (course) (behavior) (conversation) of life, the old self that was corrupt with the lusts of deceit. ²³ You are renewed in the spirit (vital principles) (attitude) of your mind (understanding). ²⁴ Put on the new man, that in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth.

¹² As God's chosen, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness (humility), meekness (mildness), and long-suffering (patience). ¹³ Tolerate (endure) (suffer) (put up with) one another, and forgive each other. If any man has a complaint against anyone, forgive them, even as God forgave you. ¹⁴ Above all these things, put on love, which is the bond of perfection and unity. ¹⁵ Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts. You were called in one body for this purpose. You be thankful. ¹⁶ Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you with all wisdom. Teach and admonish one another with psalms, praises to God, and spiritual songs. Sing with gratitude in your hearts to God. ¹⁷ Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. Give thanks to God the Father through him.