In Christ - Put Off, Put On

Your life speaks with a kingdom accent. In Put Off, Put On from the In Christ series, Mark Medley opens Ephesians 4:25–32 and gets specific about how a new life in Jesus shows up in ordinary choices—truth-telling, anger, work, words, and forgiveness. But he refuses to treat Paul’s commands like a cold checklist. Grace comes first. Before a single “do this,” God has made us alive, adopted us, forgiven us, and sealed us by the Holy Spirit. That order matters, because you can’t bully your heart into holiness. Real transformation begins when a heart is softened by mercy and rebuilt from the inside out.

From there, Mark shows how Christian ethics are love-in-action within community. We speak truth “for we are members of one another,” because trust is the foundation of healthy relationships. We deal with anger quickly—be angry and do not sin—so resentment doesn’t take root and the devil gets no foothold. We move from taking to giving, repurposing our effort into honest work so we have something to share with anyone in need. And we treat words as gifts. No corrupting talk, but speech that fits the moment and gives grace to those who hear. Our tongues carry death and life, and careless, bitter, profane, or backbiting talk can even grieve the Holy Spirit who has sealed us for the day of redemption.

Mark underscores that in the kingdom of God, relationships—not mere rule-keeping—are the point. Truth protects trust. Quick reconciliation shuts the door on bitterness. Generosity frees us from a life of taking. Life-giving words build up people and strengthen church unity. He offers the THINK filter for everyday conversations—Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind?—and calls us to speak with a mind toward eternity.

With a vivid picture of “kingdom clothing,” Mark reminds us that habits are like garments we put on daily. What we consistently “wear” reveals our devotion and shapes our destination. The passage ends where it began: with grace. Be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Forgiven people become forgiving people; loved people become loving people.

What do you need to put off, and what do you need to put on as a new habit of love this week? If this message helps you rebuild healthy patterns In Christ, share it with someone who’s ready to start fresh.

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