Romans 13:12

"Do this, knowing the time, that it is already time for you to awaken out of sleep, for salvation is now nearer to us than when we first believed."

Key Reflection

Romans 13:12 urges believers to recognize that they are living in a transitional period between the old and new covenants, akin to the transition from night to day. The "night" symbolizes the present age of sin and darkness, while the "day" represents the coming kingdom of light and salvation. Paul is telling his readers that though their experience may still be marked by trials and darkness, the promise of salvation has grown much closer than when they first believed, calling them to live lives reflective of this new reality by walking in righteousness and holiness.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 12. The night. The word night, in the New Testament, is used to denote night literally, (Mt 2:14, etc.;) the starry heavens, (Re 8:12;) and then it denotes a state of ignorance and crime, and is synonymous with the word darkness, as such deeds are committed commonly in the night, 1 Th 5:5. In this place it seems to denote our present imperfect and obscure condition in this world as contrasted with the pure light of heaven. The night, the time of comparative security and sin in which we live even under the gospel, is far gone in relation to us, and the pure splendours of heaven are at hand. Is far spent. Literally, "is cut off." It is becoming short; it is hastening to a close.

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