Contributor: Clem Roberts

Introduction:

In Summary of last week study we learnt that the scripture admonishes us to obey the rule of law that is constituted in the land.  We also, established the fact that God allowed them to be in position does mean that he created them the way they may eventually turn out. We learnt that being subject to the government because it is for our good, and it is the right thing to do.  It was reiterated that vengeance is of God and not ours, even in situations where we the wicked is in authority.  It was stressed that it is much better to love than hate or curse.

In today’s study, Apostle Paul is making a serious appeal to believers.  The world we live in this present times always want to emphasize how knowledgeable and enlightened they are and at the same time neglecting and relegating the instructions and the Word of God.  We can see from the entire book of Romans based on our study so far that it is Paul’s desire to the Romans, believers and all humans to live according to the dictates of the Almighty God.

Verses 11-14

“11 And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already 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 armour of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing 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 flesh.” NIV 

1.  Understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber (Don’t doze off or go into a deep sleep) because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  

2. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness
   • Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.
3. Put on the armour of light.

• Galatians 3:27 tells us "For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ."
• A quick look and study of Ephesians 6:10 – 18 gives more understanding of Paul’s appeal in this verse of scripture. 

4. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, where your live is ruled, characterised and governed by lively and noisy festivities, especially involving drinking and dancing.
5. Avoid sexual immorality and debauchery,
   • Do not get involved in extreme indulgence in bodily pleasures and especially sexual pleasures: or behaviour involving sex, drugs, alcohol, etc. that is often considered immoral.

6. Avoid dissension and jealousy.

• disagreement that leads to discord.
• feeling or showing an envious resentment of someone or their achievements, possessions, or perceived advantages.

7.  Let’s clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
   • do not give pleasure or satisfaction to the cravings of the flesh

In summary - How can we achieve this?

1. Taking every thought captive - 2 Corinthians 10:5
2. Be transformed - Romans 12:2
3. Be renewed – Romans 12: 2