Romans 13:11-14 “And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature.”
Romani 13:11-14 “E questo dobbiamo fare, consci del momento cruciale: è ora ormai che vi svegliate dal sonno, perché adesso la salvezza ci è più vicina di quando credemmo. 12 La notte è avanzata, il giorno è vicino; gettiamo dunque via le opere delle tenebre e indossiamo le armi della luce. 13 Comportiamoci onestamente, come in pieno giorno, senza gozzoviglie e ubriachezze, senza immoralità e dissolutezza, senza contese e gelosie; 14 ma rivestitevi del Signore Gesù Cristo e non abbiate cura della carne per soddisfarne i desideri.”
This passage deals with the conduct expected of all believers and the constant vigilance of our faith.
“Understanding the present time” does not refer to time in general but specifically to time as we approach the imminent return of the Lord. It can become easy to slide and be less vigilant in our faith as the pressure to succumb to the world’s standards continues its assault on our convictions. Paul is reminding believers “to wake up from your slumber”. The metaphor is obvious. We are most vulnerable to a burglary in our home when we are sleeping. The spiritual meaning follows likewise. Many times in the Scriptures we are reminded “to be alert” (Ephesians 6:18, 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 1 Peter 5:8).
Paul then flows into another analogy by stating that the imminent return of the Lord is like the arrival of the dawn: “The night is nearly over:” As we note the changing of time both culturally and spiritually, it is imperative that we remain free from the invasion of sin that would destroy us. The text provides a list of some potential dangers that await those who are lax in their spiritual lives.
Finally, Paul gives us a solution that will help keep us vigilant: “Cloth yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ”. When we become believers, we are “clothed with Christ” (Galatians 3:27). The answer to keeping a consistent and strong spiritual life is to dress appropriately at all times.
Pray with me: Lord, I know that Your coming is near. Help me to keep myself clothed with Your righteousness daily.
