Romans 13:11-14

Paul writes: "Let us put aside the deeds of darkness. Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ."

Paul counsels the Christians in Rome that salvation is near and so they are to put off debauchery and licentiousness, quarreling and jealousy, and put on "the Lord Jesus Christ." Throughout his letters, Paul refers to "the Lord Jesus Christ," but the phrase does not appear in the gospels of the New Testament. Jesus is called Christ and Lord in the gospels, although God is called Lord more often, but never the Lord Jesus Christ. Yet, in the Acts of the Apostles we find several uses of this phrase. (Acts 11:17, 15:26, 20:21, and 28:31) This seems to be language of the early church, which does not go back to the time of the ministry of Jesus.

However, this affirmation of faith reflects the sense of living "in Christ" and of being "born again" as a follower of Jesus. Paul says putting on the Lord Jesus Christ is like putting on armor, because there is no greater protection against the forces of darkness. Here is a truth that can only be tested in life. Enter into this faith and see for yourself what comes.

Grace and peace...Bob