to be renewed
The phrase "to be renewed" comes from the Greek word "ananeoo," which implies a continuous process of renewal. This suggests that the transformation of a believer is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey. In the historical context of the early church, this renewal was essential for believers who were transitioning from pagan practices to a life in Christ. The idea of renewal is deeply rooted in the concept of sanctification, where the Holy Spirit works within believers to mold them into the likeness of Christ. This renewal is both a divine act and a human responsibility, requiring believers to actively participate in their spiritual growth through prayer, study of the Scriptures, and fellowship with other believers.

in the spirit
The term "spirit" here is translated from the Greek word "pneuma," which can refer to the Holy Spirit, the human spirit, or an attitude or disposition. In this context, it likely refers to the inner being or the attitude of the mind. The spirit is the seat of one's thoughts, emotions, and will, and it is here that transformation must occur. Historically, the Greco-Roman world placed a high value on the mind and intellect, but Paul emphasizes that true transformation comes from a spiritual renewal that affects one's entire being. This renewal of the spirit is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God and is a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel.

of your minds
The word "minds" is translated from the Greek "nous," which refers to the intellect, understanding, or reasoning. In the biblical context, the mind is not just the center of rational thought but also the center of moral and spiritual understanding. The renewal of the mind is crucial because it is through the mind that we discern God's will and align our lives with His purposes. In the historical context of Ephesus, a city known for its intellectual pursuits and philosophical debates, Paul’s emphasis on the renewal of the mind would have been particularly poignant. It challenges believers to move beyond mere intellectual assent to a deep, transformative understanding of God's truth. This renewal leads to a life that reflects the character of Christ, marked by love, humility, and obedience to God's Word.

(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)