What does Romans 13:14 mean?

Explanation

Romans 13:14 is a verse that calls for Christians to live a life that is in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ, by actively rejecting sinful behaviors and desires.

The phrase "put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ" uses the metaphor of clothing to suggest that people should clothe themselves with the characteristics and virtues that are associated with Jesus, such as love, mercy, and holiness.

The latter part of the verse, "and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof," warns against indulging in the desires of the flesh, which are often contrary to God's will and can lead to sinful actions.

Historical Context

Romans 13:14 was written by the Apostle Paul in the first century AD, to the early Christian community in Rome. This was a time when the Roman Empire was known for its hedonism and moral laxity.

Christians in Rome were surrounded by a culture that frequently engaged in practices that were at odds with their faith. Paul's letters were pastoral in nature, aimed at guiding and instructing believers in how to live their lives in a way that was counter-cultural and pleasing to God.

Theological Insights

The verse emphasizes the importance of sanctification in Christian theology, which is the process of becoming more like Christ through the work of the Holy Spirit. Sanctification involves a deliberate turning away from sinful behaviors and an embracing of godly living.

Theologically, this verse underscores the idea of free will; believers are called to make a choice to live according to the Spirit rather than to the desires of the flesh.

Different theological perspectives might interpret this verse in various ways.

For example, a Calvinist might emphasize God's grace in enabling a believer to "put on" Christ, while an Arminian might focus on the believer's responsibility to choose to follow Christ's path.

Liberation theology might view this verse as a call to reject the sinful structures of society that oppress the disadvantaged.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in daily life by encouraging individuals to actively resist temptations and make conscious decisions that reflect Christian values.

Believers are reminded to be vigilant about the choices they make and to avoid situations or habits that may lead to sinful behaviors.

It also means seeking spiritual growth through prayer, reading the Bible, and fellowshipping with other believers, which can help reinforce one's commitment to lead a Christlike life.

Cross-References

• Galatians 3:27: "For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ."
• Ephesians 4:22-24: "That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness."
• Colossians 3:5: "Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:"

Language Study

The key word "put ye on" is translated from the Greek "ἐνδύσασθε" (endysasthe), which is an imperative form of the verb meaning to clothe or invest oneself with. This term carries the connotation of being enveloped and surrounded by something.

The term "flesh" comes from the Greek "σάρξ" (sarx) and in Paul's writings, it often refers to the sinful nature of humans, which is prone to desires and actions that are contrary to God's will.

"Provision" translates from "πρόνοιαν" (pronoian), which means forethought or making plans for something, in this case suggesting a premeditated intention to gratify one's sinful nature.

The phrase "lusts thereof" from the Greek "ἐπιθυμίαις" (epithymiais) conveys strong desires or cravings, particularly those that are improper or sinful.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the first-century Greco-Roman world, the concept of living a virtuous life akin to putting on new clothes would resonate with those familiar with philosophical schools of thought like Stoicism, which also valued self-control and ethical living.

The concept of "clothing oneself" with virtue can also be found in other religious traditions, such as Buddhism, which values putting on the "armor" of moral discipline.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse deals with spiritual and moral teachings rather than scientific concepts, modern psychology might offer insights into the verse's emphasis on conscious decision-making and behavior modification.

The idea of not making provision for the flesh could be supported by psychological principles that acknowledge the benefits of avoiding triggers and situations that can lead to negative behaviors.

Commentaries

Commentaries on Romans 13:14 offer various interpretations and insights:

• John Calvin comments that "to put on Christ" means to be ingrafted into His body and that this implies partaking in His benefits and living a life that strives for purity.
• Matthew Henry's commentary suggests that the admonition to "make no provision for the flesh" is a warning against allowing ourselves any indulgence that may feed sin and excite our corrupt affections and desires.
• The New International Commentary on the New Testament notes that Paul's metaphor of putting on clothing emphasizes the closeness of the believer's relationship with Christ and their new identity in Him, which should manifest in moral behavior and ethical living.