Identity in Christ | Putting Off, Putting On: Living Out the New Self PT. 2

Putting Off, Putting On: Living Out the New Self Part 2

In Part 2 of Episode 4 of Through the Refiner’s Fire, the conversation moves from theology into lived experience. The focus is no longer just what Scripture says about transformation—but how that transformation unfolds in real life, over years, through prayer, discipline, and surrender.

One of the most striking moments of this episode is the testimony about lying—how it became a pattern early in life, not always out of rebellion, but fear. That testimony reveals a powerful truth: sin often becomes a reflex before it becomes a choice. Yet even in that place, God responds to honest prayer. When the speaker prayed, “Lord, I don’t know why I do this—help me,” God began a long, refining work that ultimately led to speaking truth not just honestly, but lovingly.

This distinction matters. Truth without love can still be rooted in pride. The episode highlights how unredeemed behaviors can masquerade as virtues until the Holy Spirit reshapes both motive and method. What once was blunt honesty became Spirit-led transparency.

The conversation then turns to 1 Corinthians 6:9–20, a sobering reminder that believers were washed, sanctified, and justified. Paul’s words confront the idea of “halfway faith”—a Christianity that clings to grace while refusing surrender. The hosts make it clear: we cannot belong to Christ while continuing to live as though we belong to the world.

Another key theme is daily discipleship. Putting on the new self is not a one-time decision—it’s an ongoing action. Whether through entertainment choices, music, or old memories that stir former desires, the old self constantly seeks re-entry. The episode powerfully illustrates this through reflections on music and nostalgia, showing how quickly the heart can be pulled backward if discernment is not exercised.

Yet the episode does not end in fear—it ends in hope. Believers are reminded that transformation is not powered by self-effort alone, but by fixing our eyes on Christ. Overcoming sin flows from seeking God, not striving harder. The Holy Spirit actively leads, convicts, strengthens, and sustains those who remain surrendered.

Ultimately, this episode calls believers to remember what Christ pulled them out of—and to live with gratitude, vigilance, and devotion as new creations.

❓ Reflection Questions

• What areas of your life reveal lingering attachments to the “old self”?

• Are there forms of entertainment or habits the Spirit is prompting you to put away?

• How do you practice daily discipleship and accountability?

• What does “truth spoken in love” look like in your relationships?

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Transformation is often slow, but always intentional

• Truth must be shaped by love and humility

• Compromise thrives where discipleship is neglected

• The Holy Spirit empowers lasting change

• Daily surrender is essential to walking in the new self

Want to Listen to the Full Podcast Episode? Click Here, or watch the podcast below.