Ephesians 4:22 in the King James Version of the Bible says, "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts." This verse is a part of a larger passage in the book of Ephesians that provides guidance for living a Christian life. In order to fully understand the meaning and significance of this verse, it is important to consider the context in which it was written, the themes present in the passage, and the symbolism used.

The book of Ephesians was written by the apostle Paul while he was imprisoned in Rome. Paul addresses the letter to the saints in Ephesus and emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ. Throughout the book, Paul discusses various aspects of Christian living, including the need for believers to walk in love, to put on the whole armor of God, and to be filled with the Spirit. In Ephesians 4:22, Paul focuses on the idea of putting off the old self and embracing a new way of living.

The theme of transformation and renewal is central to this passage. Paul uses the metaphor of putting off the old self, which is corrupt and driven by deceitful lusts. This "old man" represents the sinful, worldly nature that is inherent in all human beings as a result of the Fall. By contrast, the "new man" is created in righteousness and holiness by God (Ephesians 4:24). This transformation is made possible through the power of Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. The emphasis is on the need for believers to allow the Spirit to work in them, transforming their hearts and minds so that they can live in a manner that is pleasing to God.

The use of the term "conversation" in Ephesians 4:22 is significant. In the King James Version, "conversation" refers not only to verbal communication, but also to one's conduct, behavior, and way of life. Paul is urging believers to put off the old way of living, characterized by sinful desires and deceit, and to embrace a new way of living that is in accordance with God's will. This transformation is both personal and communal, affecting not only individual believers but also the church as a whole.

The symbolism of "putting off" and "putting on" is also significant in this verse. The imagery of taking off old, dirty clothes and putting on new, clean garments is a powerful metaphor for the process of sanctification. Believers are called to actively participate in this process, to continually "put off" the ways of the flesh and to "put on" the ways of God. This requires intentional and ongoing effort, as well as reliance on the power of the Spirit to enable this transformation to take place.

In conclusion, Ephesians 4:22 is a powerful reminder of the need for transformation and renewal in the life of a believer. The verse emphasizes the importance of putting off the old, sinful ways of living and embracing a new way of life that is in accordance with God's will. This transformation is made possible through the work of the Holy Spirit and is a process that requires continual effort and reliance on God. The symbolism of "putting off" and "putting on" speaks to the active and intentional nature of this transformation, as well as its personal and communal significance within the body of Christ. As believers seek to live in a manner worthy of their calling, they are encouraged to continually put off the old self and put on the new self, created in righteousness and holiness.