to be renewed
This phrase emphasizes the ongoing process of spiritual transformation. The concept of renewal is central to Christian doctrine, reflecting the idea of being made new in Christ. This renewal is not a one-time event but a continuous process, aligning with Romans 12:2, which speaks of being transformed by the renewing of the mind. The Greek word for "renewed" (ἀνανεόω) suggests a complete renovation, indicating a profound change in one's nature and character. This renewal is a work of the Holy Spirit, as seen in Titus 3:5, where the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit is mentioned.

in the spirit
The term "spirit" here refers to the inner being or the immaterial part of a person that is capable of communion with God. It is not merely the human spirit but the aspect of a person that is influenced and transformed by the Holy Spirit. This aligns with the biblical understanding that true change begins internally, as seen in Ezekiel 36:26-27, where God promises to give a new heart and spirit. The spirit is the seat of thoughts, attitudes, and intentions, and its renewal is essential for living a life that pleases God.

of your minds;
The mind is the center of thought, understanding, and decision-making. In the biblical context, the mind is not just the intellect but encompasses the whole inner life, including emotions and will. The renewal of the mind is crucial because it affects how one perceives and interacts with the world. This is echoed in Philippians 2:5, which encourages believers to have the mind of Christ. The transformation of the mind leads to discernment and the ability to understand God's will, as highlighted in Colossians 3:2, which instructs believers to set their minds on things above. The renewal of the mind is a key aspect of sanctification, the process of becoming more like Christ.

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Ephesians, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. Ephesus
A major city in Asia Minor, Ephesus was a center of commerce and culture. The Ephesian church was one of the early Christian communities to which Paul wrote.

3. The Ephesian Church
The recipients of the letter, this early Christian community faced challenges of unity and spiritual growth, which Paul addresses in his epistle.Renewal of the Mind
The Greek word for "renewed" (ananeo?) implies a continuous process. Christians are called to a daily renewal of their thoughts and attitudes, aligning them with God's truth.

Spiritual Transformation
This renewal is not merely intellectual but spiritual, involving the Holy Spirit's work in transforming our inner being to reflect Christ's character.

Practical Steps for Renewal
Engage regularly with Scripture, prayer, and fellowship with other believers to facilitate the renewal process.

Guarding the Mind
Be vigilant about what influences your thoughts. Avoid media and environments that contradict biblical values.

Living Out the New Self
As our minds are renewed, our actions should reflect this transformation, demonstrating love, patience, and humility in our daily lives.(23) And be renewed in the spirit of your mind.--The word translated "renewed" is not the same as the word "new" below. It is properly "to be made young again," and the process of recovery is described as the natural effect of putting off the decrepitude of the old man, and the decay engendered by fleshly lusts. The effect is seen in "the spirit of the mind"--that is, "in the spiritual nature of the inner man." The "spirit" of man is the mind or inner man, considered in its true relation as quickened and sustained by the Spirit of God. (See Romans 8, and especially Ephesians 4:16.) We note, in Colossians 2:18, the opposite condition of "the mind of the flesh," in those who do not "hold the Head." This spirit is spoken of as regaining its undying youth, as it were, naturally, when "the muddy vesture of decay" is cast off.

Verse 23. - And that ye be renewed in the spirit of your mind. Between the first and second practical change, derived from being taught by Christ, the apostle inserts this counsel applicable to both. This renewal is the work of the Holy Spirit; how, then, can it be the subject of an exhortation to us? In this sense, that we are to prize, long for, encourage, watch, this work of the Holy Spirit, feeling it to be most vital and essential, not to be neglected without awful sin and danger. Usually the Holy Spirit works in us by stirring up our spirit to desire and endeavor after holiness; to resist these strivings of the Spirit, or even to be indifferent to them, is a deadly and most dangerous sin.

Parallel Commentaries ...


to be renewed
ἀνανεοῦσθαι (ananeousthai)
Verb - Present Infinitive Middle or Passive
Strong's 365: To renew; mid: I renew myself, be renewed. From ana and a derivative of neos; to renovate, i.e. Reform.

in the
τῷ (tō)
Article - Dative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

spirit
πνεύματι (pneumati)
Noun - Dative Neuter Singular
Strong's 4151: Wind, breath, spirit.

of
τοῦ (tou)
Article - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3588: The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.

your
ὑμῶν (hymōn)
Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 2nd Person Plural
Strong's 4771: You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.

minds;
νοὸς (noos)
Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular
Strong's 3563: Probably from the base of ginosko; the intellect, i.e. Mind; by implication, meaning.


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NT Letters: Ephesians 4:23 And that you be renewed (Ephes. Eph. Ep)