Romans 13:14
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 13:14
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Chapter Context
Romans 13 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, judgment, wisdom. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 13:14
14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
Analysis
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ—Alla endysasthe ton kyrion Iēsoun Christon (ἀλλὰ ἐνδύσασθε τὸν κύριον Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν). The aorist imperative endysasthe (put on) calls for decisive action—clothe yourself with Christ. This echoes Galatians 3:27: 'as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.' To 'put on Christ' is to assume His character, embody His virtues, live in union with Him (Colossians 3:10-14). The full title—kyrion Iēsoun Christon (Lord Jesus Christ)—emphasizes His authority (Lord), humanity (Jesus), and messianic office (Christ).
And make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof—Kai tēs sarkos pronoian mē poieisthe eis epithymias (καὶ τῆς σαρκὸς πρόνοιαν μὴ ποιεῖσθε εἰς ἐπιθυμίας). Pronoian (πρόνοια, provision/forethought) means planning ahead. The prohibition: don't make advance arrangements to indulge epithymias (lusts/desires) of sarx (flesh—sinful nature). Don't position yourself for temptation, don't create opportunities for sin. This is practical wisdom—avoid situations, relationships, media, environments that fuel fleshly desires.
Historical Context
This verse converted Augustine. Tormented by sexual sin and philosophical confusion, he heard a child's voice: 'Tolle lege' (take up and read). Opening Scripture, he read Romans 13:13-14. Immediately convicted, he renounced his lifestyle, embraced chastity, and pursued Christ—becoming the greatest theologian since Paul. This text demonstrates Scripture's transformative power when applied by the Spirit. 'Put on Christ' became a baptismal formula in the early church, symbolizing believers' new identity. Putting off the old self (Ephesians 4:22) and putting on Christ is the essence of conversion and sanctification.
Reflection
- What does it mean practically to 'put on the Lord Jesus Christ' (<em>endysasthe ton kyrion Iēsoun</em>)—how do you clothe yourself with Him daily?
- In what areas are you 'making provision for the flesh' (<em>tēs sarkos pronoian</em>)—planning ahead for sin, creating opportunities for temptation?
- How does avoiding provision for the flesh differ from legalistic rule-keeping—what's the heart difference between fear-based avoidance and love-motivated pursuit of holiness?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Christ: Galatians 3:27, 5:24
- Parallel theme: Job 29:14, Ephesians 4:24, 1 Peter 2:11