What does Ephesians 4:20 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 4:20 states, "But ye have not so learned Christ;" suggesting that the manner of life of the believers the apostle Paul is addressing should not resemble that of the Gentiles, which he describes in the preceding verses.

Paul emphasizes that if they have truly comprehended and accepted the teachings of Jesus Christ, their lives should reflect a marked difference from their former conduct and the prevailing pagan culture.

This verse serves as a contrast and a critique of the lifestyle that is not in line with Christ's teachings. It implies that to "learn Christ" is not merely an intellectual exercise, but a deep, transformative experience that changes one's behavior and values.

Historical Context

Ephesians is an epistle traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, written around A.D. 60-62 while he was imprisoned in Rome.

Ephesus was a city known for its significant pagan worship, particularly of Artemis, and was a center of commerce and culture in the Greco-Roman world.

Believers in Ephesus existed in a culture deeply influenced by pagan beliefs and practices, which could easily seep into their way of life.

In Ephesians 4, Paul urges the Church to live differently from their surrounding culture, reflecting the transformative power of Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse underlines the concept of sanctification – the process of becoming more like Christ after one's initial conversion or justification.

It suggests that learning Christ involves embracing a Christ-like demeanor and ethics as evidence of true discipleship. It contrasts the Christian's prior state of separation from God with a new state of intimacy and moral transformation.

This verse is seen within the broader conversation about how faith and works relate in a believer's life, emphasizing that faith in Christ should invariably produce a change in conduct.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Ephesians 4:20 serves as a reminder that knowledge of Christ demands a corresponding change in behavior. This can apply to everyday actions, such as how one speaks, treats others, conducts business, or engages in community life.

The verse prompts believers to self-examine whether their lives genuinely reflect the teachings of Jesus and encourages continuous personal growth to align more closely with Christ’s example.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:10 – “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”
• Colossians 3:10 – “And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:”
• Romans 6:4 – “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 – “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek is "ὑμεῖς δὲ οὐχ οὕτως ἐμάθετε τὸν Χριστόν," with "οὐχ οὕτως ἐμάθετε" translated as "ye have not so learned." The verb "ἐμάθετε" (emathete) comes from "μανθάνω" (manthanō) meaning "to learn" in the sense of being taught, understood, or coming to realize.

The negative "ουχ" (ouch) here serves to make a strong contrast between the Christian way of life and the pagan one mentioned prior.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing these teachings to other ancient religious traditions, the emphasis on moral and internal transformation can also be found in various philosophies and religions of the time, such as Stoicism, which emphasized virtuous living.

However, the Christian approach is unique in its focus on a personal relationship with Christ as a central source of transformation, rather than just adherence to a moral code.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might refer to the concept of learning Christ as transformative learning, a process that changes one’s frame of reference and self-concept.

While science might describe this through cognitive and behavioral changes, this verse speaks to a deeper, spiritual transformation that goes beyond what is typically addressed in a scientific framework.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Ephesians 4:20 often highlight the apostle's use of this verse to make a decisive point about Christian education and lifestyle.

They note that Paul associates learning with living, indicating that true understanding is not just intellectual but ethical and spiritual.

Commentators also emphasize that Paul sees knowing Christ as involving both the mind and the heart, leading to a lived-out faith that contrasts with the lifestyles common among the Ephesians’ non-Christian peers.