When we begin to follow Jesus by faith, we’re exhorted to put off the old self, a life plunged into spiritual blindness and wayward desires. Instead, we put on the new self, where our hopes and yearnings begin to mirror those of God in all areas of our lives. While it’s tempting to think this is a matter of human effort and personal striving, the Apostle Paul shows us that all the resources and power to do this has already been handed over to us by the Spirit through faith in Christ. We are called to become who God has already made us to be by His grace. Self-improvement and personal to-do-lists can’t accomplish what Jesus has finished in His life, death, and resurrection for us. This is good news for all of us because it’s not up to us to finally get it right but we’re already spiritually in progress as His children. Now, let’s dress like who we already are.

Discussion Questions1. How does Paul describe the old self in our passage? Are there ways you’ve seen this in your own life? 2. How does Paul describe the new self in our passage? Are there ways you’ve seen this in your own life? 3. Is there a difference between “be who you already are” versus “be who you hope to become”? Does it affect how you view change in your life? 4. Do you believe that God doesn’t give up on you, even when you struggle to “put on the new self”? How have you seen evidence of this in your own life? 5. Who are the people in your life that have put on the new self and are “imitators of God” (5:1)? Encourage and affirm them and let them know you see that happening. Who are the people struggling with their old selves? Pray for them and find a way to walk alongside them in their journey.