Ephesians 4:20 (KJV)

What does Ephesians 4:20 mean?

Ephesians 4:20 states that the way the Ephesian believers have come to know Christ is different from the ways described just before this verse, which focused on the old, sinful way of living. Paul is reminding them that learning about Christ leads to a new way of life, not the corrupt behavior he just described.

Paul, writing to the Christians in Ephesus, is making a clear contrast between their former way of living and what it means to truly know Christ. The verse comes after a description of people living without God, and Paul is emphasizing that those who have learned about Christ are called to something different and better.

The Greek behind Ephesians 4:20

• ἐμάθετε (emathēte, "learned"): This word means more than just gaining information; it often suggests being shaped or formed by what is learned. Paul is saying that knowing Christ changes a person’s whole outlook and behavior.
• Χριστόν (Christon, "Christ"): Paul uses "Christ" here not just as a name, but as the focus of what is learned. The point is that Christ himself is the content and the example of this new way of life.

Why Ephesians 4:20 matters

• Ephesians 4:20 clears up the idea that following Christ is only about beliefs or rituals; Paul is saying it’s about a changed life that looks different from the old way.
• This verse marks a turning point in the chapter, shifting from describing the old life to explaining what it means to live as someone who truly knows Christ.
• Ephesians 4:20 helps the reader see that learning Christ is personal and transformative, not just about learning facts or rules.