Ephesians 4:24-27

What Does Ephesians 4:24-27 Mean?

Paul is writing to followers of Jesus in Ephesus and reminding them that because of God’s work in their hearts, they are genuinely new people – created to be like God in goodness and holiness. That means leaving behind old habits like lying and choosing honesty instead. Paul also addresses anger: it’s okay to feel angry sometimes, but the danger comes when we let that anger sit and grow, giving the enemy a foothold in our hearts. Don’t go to sleep with unresolved anger toward someone – deal with it kindly and quickly!

Hero Challenge

This week, pay attention to two things: how truthful you are in your conversations, and how quickly you deal with anger or conflict. If you get into a disagreement with a sibling or friend, try to make it right before the day is over instead of letting it fester. Practice being your new, God-created self!

Did You Know?

The city of Ephesus was one of the most important cities in the ancient Roman world – a bustling trade hub full of temples to false gods and all kinds of dishonest business dealings. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians was written to help followers of Jesus stand out as genuinely different people in that culture. The phrase “put on the new self” was likely connected to the idea of putting on a new set of clothes – a vivid picture everyone in the ancient world would have understood.

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

God wants us to tell the truth! Can you think of a time when telling the truth was hard but you did it anyway?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

Paul says don’t let the sun go down on your anger. Why is it important to fix things with people before you go to sleep instead of staying upset?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

Paul says your “new self” was created to be like God in holiness and righteousness. What do you think that means for how you talk, think, and treat people every day? What’s one habit you want to change to be more like your new self?