The concept of the "old self" is a significant theme in Christian theology, particularly in the context of sanctification and spiritual transformation. The "old self" refers to the pre-conversion state of a person, characterized by sin and separation from God. This term is often contrasted with the "new self," which represents the renewed nature of a believer in Christ.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the concept of the old self in several of his epistles. In Romans 6:6, Paul writes, "We know that our old self was crucified with Him so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, that we should no longer be slaves to sin." Here, the "old self" is associated with the sinful nature that is put to death through union with Christ in His crucifixion. This crucifixion of the old self is essential for breaking the power of sin in a believer's life.

In Ephesians 4:22-24, Paul exhorts believers to "put off your former way of life, your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be renewed in the spirit of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." This passage highlights the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are called to actively reject their former sinful behaviors and embrace their new identity in Christ.

Characteristics of the Old Self

The old self is marked by a life lived according to the flesh, as described in Galatians 5:19-21: "The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like." These behaviors are indicative of a life not submitted to the Spirit of God.

The old self is also characterized by a mindset that is hostile to God. Romans 8:7 states, "The mind of the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so." This enmity with God is a fundamental aspect of the old self, which is incapable of pleasing God or understanding spiritual truths (1 Corinthians 2:14).

Transformation and Renewal

The transformation from the old self to the new self is a work of the Holy Spirit, who regenerates and renews the believer. Titus 3:5-6 explains, "He saved us, not by the righteous deeds we had done, but according to His mercy, through the washing of new birth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. This He poured out on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Savior."

This transformation involves a radical change in identity and behavior. Colossians 3:9-10 instructs believers, "Do not lie to one another, since you have taken off the old self with its practices, and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator." The new self is continually being renewed to reflect the character and image of God.

Practical Implications

Understanding the old self has practical implications for Christian living. Believers are called to live in a manner that reflects their new identity in Christ, rejecting the sinful patterns of the old self. This involves a conscious effort to align one's thoughts, attitudes, and actions with the teachings of Scripture and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The struggle between the old self and the new self is an ongoing reality for Christians. Galatians 5:16-17 encourages believers to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh." This tension requires vigilance and reliance on God's grace to overcome the remnants of the old self.

In summary, the old self represents the former way of life dominated by sin and separation from God. Through faith in Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit, believers are called to put off the old self and embrace their new identity, living in righteousness and holiness.