Take Off The Old And Put On The New

We are called to do more than simply knowing intellectually: we must take off the old and put on the new.

James 1:21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

It’s easy to be deceived that right believing is enough for a Christian to live right. It is the prerequisite, but it’s not all there is. James emphasizes the importance of rooting out all wickedness from the heart and mind, to take off the old and put on the new. The expression “put away” could mean taking off one’s clothes and setting them aside, far from the self. In the same manner, we should throw all forms of wickedness away from us.

Sin, whether in attitude and action, has a deceptive power and must be dealt with aggressively and intentionally. It has a way of appearing desirable and appealing, but it can easily pollute the soul and leave an ugly stain. The only remedy and protection for the believer against this filthiness is a healthy hatred toward it.

James commands us to get rid of rampant wickedness that keeps cropping up in the heart. Given the magnificent promises we have received, let us cleanse every part of ourselves—every action and thought. Let us become as holy and respectful of God as we possibly can.

We should never think that we can do this because of our own holiness. Nothing good dwells in our flesh. It is only through the grace of Christ that we can have the strength to reject sin and wickedness. With the power of the Holy Spirit, the Word we receive produces a new man that conforms to the image of Christ.

Therefore, we should not resist the Word but receive it with meekness, humbly yielding to its leadership. It is only when we accept the Word of God with humility and obedience that it can take root in us and thrive.

Gracious Lord, I surrender to Your Word today, asking the Holy Spirit’s grace and power to help me actively take off the old and put on the new. Replace my heart with a heart of meekness and obedience, so that Your implanted truth may take root deep within my heart and genuinely flourish. Amen.

Eric James Estante

Eric has a deep passion for teaching God’s Word. He holds a degree in Theology from Central Philippine University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling. He served as an associate pastor in his local church in Iloilo City for four years. Eric currently volunteers with his wife, Joey, teaching biblical marriage principles at their church in Alabang. They have one son.