Romans 13:14 Meaning: How to Clothe Yourself with Christ
Romans 13:14 is an apostolic command from the Apostle Paul urging believers to actively embody the character and righteousness of Jesus Christ. It instructs Christians to ‘put on the Lord Jesus Christ’ like a garment and, conversely, to stop planning for or making accommodations to gratify sinful, fleshly desires.
Our world constantly vies for our attention with fleeting desires and worldly pursuits. This leaves many followers of Christ grappling with a profound question: How do we genuinely live out our faith daily, reflecting the character of Jesus in every thought, word, and deed? This journey is not about outward conformity but inner transformation—a desire to shed the old self and fully embrace the new life offered through our Lord and Savior. For this sacred pursuit, the Holy Scriptures, God’s inspired and authoritative Word, provide unwavering guidance and show us the path to walk in His light.
Among these divine truths is a potent exhortation from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. In Romans 13:14, we find a powerful directive that calls for a radical shift in our identity and lifestyle: to “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” This is not just an abstract theological concept; it is a vital blueprint for practical holiness. It urges us to consciously choose Christ in every moment and to actively resist the old patterns of sin that seek to entangle us. The verse is a profound declaration of our union with Christ, who is God manifest in the flesh. It is also a practical instruction for walking worthy of His name by trusting in His atoning death and glorious resurrection.
As we explore Romans 13:14, we will uncover the profound meaning behind Paul’s inspired words and the urgent context in which they were written. We will delve into its powerful call to action to understand what it truly means to spiritually awaken and intentionally put on Christ as our very garment. Join us as we prayerfully examine this life-changing scripture. Our goal is to understand and apply its transformative power in our daily walk with Jesus, our divine King, Savior, and Redeemer.
What is the call to action in Romans 13:14?
The Urgency of the Times (Romans 13:11-13)
In Romans 13, the Apostle Paul delivers a powerful wake-up call. Though written to believers in Rome, his words echo across the centuries, conveying a message of immediate urgency for us today.
Paul declares, “And do this, understanding the present time: The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber” (Romans 13:11 NIV). This is not a mere suggestion but a command, reminding us that our spiritual state matters greatly to God. We are called to be alert and prepared.
To emphasize this point, Paul highlights the nearing culmination of our faith: “because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed” (Romans 13:11 NIV). This truth offers immense hope, but it also demands vigilance. The time we live in is significant because the return of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ, draws closer every day.
Paul continues with a vivid contrast between darkness and light, writing, “The night is nearly over; the day is almost here” (Romans 13:12 NIV). The “night” represents the current age, marked by sin and worldly desires. In contrast, the “day” signifies the glorious return of Jesus Christ and the dawn of His eternal kingdom.
Given this reality, our response must be clear. Paul calls us to “throw off the deeds of darkness,” which are acts contrary to God’s holy character, and instead “put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:12 NIV). This spiritual armor, representing the virtues of a life lived for Christ, equips us for battle.
This passage highlights the critical need for a transformed life, setting the stage for Romans 13:14. It shows that living righteously is not optional but essential for those who eagerly await their Lord.
Waking from Spiritual Slumber
Paul’s command to “wake up from your slumber” is a profound challenge to spiritual laziness and apathy. Believers can fall into a state of spiritual sleep, which doesn’t mean losing salvation, but rather drifting from active engagement and intentional, Christ-centered living.
Waking from this slumber involves recognizing spiritual realities and understanding the brevity of life. Since our time on earth is finite and the return of Jesus Christ is certain, we must live with purpose (John 14:3).
Spiritual slumber often entails:
- Complacency: Comfort with the status quo and little desire for spiritual growth.
- Distraction: Allowing worldly pursuits to overshadow God’s priorities.
- Apathy: A lack of passion for God’s Word and His mission.
- Ignorance: Neglecting Scripture and prayer, which leads to a dimmed spiritual understanding.
Therefore, to awaken is to embrace spiritual alertness. This requires being vigilant against sin’s temptations and remaining ready for Christ’s return, a cornerstone of Christian discipleship (Matthew 24:42-44).
This awakening prepares our hearts for the command in Romans 13:14: to “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.” This call to action is transformative, shaping our daily choices and moving us from passive belief to an active, living faith. It compels us to live not for the darkness, but for the glorious light of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
What is the meaning of Romans 13 14?
Part 1: ‘Clothe Yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ’
Romans 13:14 opens with the powerful command to “put on the Lord Jesus Christ,” a phrase rich with meaning that calls believers to a profound spiritual transformation. Just as we intentionally choose our attire each day, we are called to intentionally choose Christ.
To “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” means fully embracing His character and adopting His virtues as our own. It is a call to walk as He walked and reflect His righteousness in every aspect of our lives. This isn’t about outward appearance; instead, it speaks to an inward change where our very identity becomes centered in Him.
This spiritual clothing is not something we earn but is a gift received through faith. As Galatians 3:27 explains, when we are baptized into Christ, we are clothed with Him. This means His perfect righteousness covers us, and His nature begins to manifest within us. We are then called to live out this new identity daily by putting on traits like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). These “garments of Christ” replace our old sinful nature. As we shed the old self and are renewed in our minds (Ephesians 4:22-24), we become more like Him. This is a lifelong process, guided by the Holy Spirit.
Part 2: ‘Make No Provision for the Flesh’
The second part of Romans 13:14 provides a crucial counterbalance: “and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.” Here, the “flesh” refers to our sinful nature—the unredeemed part of humanity that yearns for things contrary to God’s will. This includes sinful desires, impulses, and habits that often lead us away from Christ.
“Making no provision” means deliberately cutting off opportunities for sin. This conscious effort requires vigilance and self-control, as we must avoid creating circumstances that tempt us or feed our sinful inclinations. For example, this could mean avoiding certain places, entertainment, or influences that encourage wrongdoing. The goal is not to plan for or enable sin but to starve our sinful desires.
This command aligns with Paul’s broader teaching about the conflict between the Spirit and the flesh (Galatians 5:16-17). Because the flesh wages war against our souls, we must actively choose to walk by the Spirit and “put to death the deeds of the body” (Romans 8:13). This is not a passive act but requires our full participation. While we must choose obedience, we cannot overcome the flesh alone. We must rely on God’s strength, as His power is what enables us to say “no” to sin.
The Contrast Between Light and Darkness
Romans 13:14 is the climax of Paul’s urgent appeal, where he highlights the urgency of the hour: “The night is far gone; the day is at hand” (Romans 13:12). This vivid metaphor contrasts the darkness of sin with the light of Christ. We are called to cast off the “works of darkness”—behaviors like revelry, drunkenness, sexual immorality, debauchery, quarreling, and jealousy (Romans 13:13). Such actions belong to the night and thrive in spiritual ignorance.
By clothing ourselves with Christ, we step into the light. As Jesus Himself declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). To put on Christ, therefore, means embracing this divine light and living openly and truthfully. Our lives become a testimony, shining like a beacon in a darkened world. This light not only exposes sin but also guides others toward repentance and faith as we become “children of light” (Ephesians 5:8).
This contrast between light and darkness is fundamental to Christian living. We cannot serve both; we cannot clothe ourselves with Christ while also making provision for the flesh because the two are mutually exclusive. We are called to make a clear choice: to choose Christ, His righteousness, and His way of life. This decision empowers us to live in victory over sin and overcome the world. As our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ alone offers salvation and abundant life.
How would you put Romans 13-14 into action in your life?
Daily Prayer and Scripture Reading
Putting on Christ begins in our quiet moments with God. Daily prayer and consistent Scripture reading are the fundamental practices that serve as our spiritual wardrobe, equipping us for the day ahead. Think of this as an essential morning routine for your soul, a time to set your intentions on Him.
Through prayer, we communicate directly with our Savior, expressing gratitude, confessing weakness, and seeking His guidance. This intimate communion strengthens our spirit and aligns our desires with His perfect will, acting as a powerful shield against the temptations of the flesh.
Reading God’s Word transforms our thinking by renewing our minds, just as Romans 12:2 instructs. As we learn to see the world through His eyes, the Bible reveals Christ’s character, unwavering love, and infinite wisdom. By immersing ourselves in Scripture, we put on the “new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator” (Colossians 3:10).
- Transform Your Perspective: God’s Word reshapes how you view challenges and decisions, aligning them with His truth.
- Strengthen Your Resolve: Prayer builds spiritual fortitude, helping you resist worldly pressures and ungodly influences.
- Discern God’s Will: Both practices provide clarity, helping you understand His plans and purpose for your life.
Make these practices a non-negotiable part of your day. This daily commitment is how you consciously choose Christ over the fleeting desires of the flesh, helping you live out Romans 13:14.
Intentional Choices in Thought and Deed
When we are clothed in Christ, our daily choices become intentional acts of worship. We are called to actively choose righteousness, which means consciously turning away from sinful impulses and deliberately aligning our thoughts and actions with God’s will.
Our thoughts are powerful, as they are the seeds of our actions. Philippians 4:8 guides us to focus our minds on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. We must actively take every thought captive and make it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Similarly, our deeds must reflect His character. This involves showing love, patience, kindness, and self-control in all our interactions and actively rejecting gossip, dishonesty, and selfishness. The Holy Spirit empowers us to “walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). This is an ongoing act of surrender and trust.
Consider these areas for intentional choices:
- Speech: Do your words build up, encourage, and reflect God’s grace, or do they tear down?
- Media Consumption: Does what you watch and read honor God and align with biblical values, or does it invite ungodliness?
- Relationships: Are you showing Christ’s selfless love, forgiveness, and patience to others, even those who are difficult?
- Work Ethic: Do you work with integrity, diligence, and excellence, knowing you are serving the Lord in your calling?
Every decision, big or small, presents an opportunity to wear Christ’s garment. Choose wisely and let your life be a powerful testament to Him.
Practicing Self-Denial
The command in Romans 13:14 to “make no provision for the flesh” calls us to the deliberate practice of self-denial. This isn’t about self-punishment, but about dethroning our selfish desires to elevate Christ as Lord over every area of our lives. As Jesus said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23).
Self-denial means consciously saying “no” to temptations and resisting urges that pull us away from God’s path. This applies to overt sins as well as permissible things that could become stumbling blocks for ourselves or others (Romans 14:21). It requires us to discipline our bodies and appetites, bringing them into submission to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
This practice cultivates spiritual strength, deepens our reliance on God, and frees us from the tyranny of our fallen desires. By denying the flesh, we make room for the Spirit to flourish in our hearts, reflecting the truth that “those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24).
Areas where we can practice self-denial include:
- Food and Drink: Consider spiritual fasting or cultivating temperate eating and drinking habits for God’s glory.
- Time: Limit distractions like excessive screen time, aimless entertainment, or unnecessary consumption, prioritizing spiritual pursuits.
- Material Possessions: Resist covetousness and consumerism; instead, practice generosity and contentment with what God provides.
- Comfort: Choose acts of service, spiritual growth, or obedience over mere personal ease or indulgence.
Through self-denial, we actively choose Christ’s way over the world’s way. We grow more like Him each day, reflecting His image to a watching world.
Seeking Accountability in Christian Community
Living out the principles in Romans 13–14 is not a solitary journey. Because we are all part of the Body of Christ, it is a communal one. Therefore, seeking accountability within a Christian community is vital, as it provides both necessary support and loving correction. As Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, we must “consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together.”
In community, we find genuine encouragement by sharing our struggles openly and celebrating victories together. When we stumble, brothers and sisters in Christ gently lift us up, reminding us of God’s grace and truth. This supportive environment helps us live out Romans 14’s call to bear with one another in love instead of judging on matters of conscience, as we aim to build each other up in faith.
Accountability helps us stay true to our commitment to Christ by encouraging us to confess our faults (James 5:16) and carry each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). This fosters a safe space for spiritual growth and helps us avoid making provisions for the flesh in secret. Furthermore, it helps us “clothe ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” together, as a united body.
Engage in Christian community through:
- Small Groups: Join a consistent Bible study, discipleship group, or prayer group for deeper fellowship.
- Mentorship: Seek out a mature believer for spiritual guidance, wisdom, and loving challenge.
- Church Attendance: Regularly participate in corporate worship, sound teaching, and the ordinances of the church.
- Service: Serve alongside other believers in ministry, building unity and mutual encouragement as you serve the Lord.
This shared journey strengthens our individual faith and helps us all walk more faithfully in Christ, reflecting His light collectively.
How Do Different Bible Versions Translate Romans 13:14?
Romans 13:14 offers a timeless truth that resonates across generations. Although God’s Word is eternal, different Bible versions present this verse with unique nuances. Exploring these variations can deepen our understanding of its core message: a vital call to discipleship.
Romans 13:14 KJV (King James Version)
First published in 1611, the King James Version (KJV) is a classic and revered translation celebrated for its rich, poetic language [1]. Many believers find its phrasing profoundly moving, as it emphasizes both a positive command and a clear warning.
Romans 13:14 KJV:
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
- “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ”: This command uses the imagery of clothing oneself to illustrate a complete spiritual transformation. It calls believers to fully identify with Christ by adopting His character and way of life.
- “and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof”: This second part issues a strong caution against planning for or indulging sinful desires. Instead of focusing on earthly passions, believers are instructed to actively resist temptation.
The KJV’s majestic wording powerfully conveys the dual instruction to embrace Christ and reject sin.
Romans 13:14 NIV (New International Version)
The New International Version (NIV) aims for clarity and readability in contemporary English, making it a widely popular translation [2]. It uses a balanced approach of word-for-word and thought-for-thought translation, which makes complex ideas accessible. As a result, its rendering of Romans 13:14 is direct and impactful.
Romans 13:14 NIV:
Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.
- “Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ”: Mirroring the KJV, the phrase “clothe yourselves” is easily understood today. It is a call to immerse ourselves in Christ’s righteousness and live according to His teachings.
- “and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh”: This practical phrasing warns against even the mental planning of sinful acts. The instruction is not to entertain thoughts that lead to sin but to have our minds renewed in Christ.
The NIV provides a clear, actionable instruction that emphasizes both outward conduct and inward thought.
Romans 13:14 ESV (English Standard Version)
The English Standard Version (ESV) prioritizes accuracy and literary excellence. Known for its “essentially literal” translation philosophy, it strives to render the original Greek and Hebrew texts as closely as possible [3]. This reverence for the source text results in a precise and strong translation of Romans 13:14.
Romans 13:14 ESV:
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
- “But put on the Lord Jesus Christ”: Much like the KJV, this command calls for a deliberate choice to embrace Christ’s identity and align our entire being with Him.
- “and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires”: This phrasing also closely resembles the KJV, warning believers not to create opportunities for temptation. Instead of preparing for sin, we are to walk in the Spirit.
By encouraging active faith and diligent resistance to sin, the ESV provides a faithful and powerful translation that serves as a solid foundation for deep study.
Romans 13:14 NLT (New Living Translation)
The New Living Translation (NLT) focuses on conveying the original meaning in natural, everyday English. It uses a “thought-for-thought” approach to capture the spirit of the message, making the text highly readable and understandable [4]. Its rendition of Romans 13:14 is both straightforward and compelling.
Romans 13:14 NLT:
Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.
- “Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ”: The NLT’s unique addition of the word “presence” beautifully emphasizes a deeper relationship. It suggests being constantly aware of Christ’s indwelling Spirit and living under His divine influence.
- “And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires”: This clear and personal warning directly addresses our internal thought life. It is a call to the spiritual discipline of actively steering our minds away from sinful temptations.
The NLT provides a fresh and accessible understanding, urging a conscious choice to live for Christ and reject the allure of sin. Ultimately, all these translations, though varied in their phrasing, uphold the same profound truth: believers are called to live fully in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 13:14
What is the meaning of Romans 13 14?
Romans 13:14 is a powerful call to spiritual transformation, instructing believers to “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires” (ESV). This verse has two main parts.
First, “clothing yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” means fully embracing His character by adopting His righteousness, humility, and love. When we put on Christ as our new identity, our thoughts, words, and actions begin to reflect Him. Our lives become an expression of His. As Galatians 3:27 reminds us, “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”
Second, “making no provision for the flesh” means actively denying sinful desires. This requires us to guard our hearts and minds, refusing to create opportunities for sin to take root. We must turn away from temptations and impulses that go against Christ’s teachings. Instead, we are called to choose paths that lead to holiness and righteousness. Paul reinforces this in Romans 8:13: “For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live.”
In essence, Romans 13:14 urges us to shed our old, sinful self and embrace a new life completely devoted to Jesus Christ. It is a daily decision to live by His Spirit rather than our own fallen nature.
What is the prayer for Romans 13 14?
While the Bible doesn’t offer a specific prayer for Romans 13:14, we can easily create one based on its themes. A prayer inspired by this verse will focus on surrender and transformation, acknowledging our need for God’s grace and strength.
When praying through Romans 13:14, consider these elements:
- Surrender and Adoration: Begin by acknowledging Jesus as Lord and expressing your desire to live fully for Him.
- Request for Transformation: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you put on Christ’s character daily. Pray for His virtues to become your own.
- Confession and Repentance: Confess any areas where you have yielded to fleshly desires. Ask for forgiveness and strength to resist temptation.
- Commitment to Self-Denial: Declare your intention to make no provision for sin. Ask for the discernment to recognize and avoid sinful situations.
- Reliance on the Holy Spirit: Conclude by asking for the Spirit’s power to guide and empower you, as you cannot live this life perfectly on your own.
Here is an example prayer:
“Heavenly Father, I come before You in the name of Jesus Christ. I praise You for Your infinite love and grace. Lord, I long to obey Your Word in Romans 13:14. I ask You to help me clothe myself with the Lord Jesus Christ each day. Clothe me with His humility, His compassion, His purity, and His unwavering love.
Forgive me, Father, for the times I have made provision for my flesh. Forgive me for yielding to selfish desires and worldly temptations. I repent of these sins and, by Your power, I choose to turn away from them. Strengthen me, Holy Spirit, to deny my sinful nature. Help me to flee from all that displeases You. Guide my thoughts, my words, and my actions so they may always honor and reflect my Savior. I pray this in Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.”
How would you put Romans 13-14 into action in your life?
Putting Romans 13:14 into action is a continuous process of spiritual growth that involves making intentional, daily choices. Here are some practical steps to live out this powerful command:
- Daily Devotion to Scripture and Prayer: Start each day in God’s Word. Pray for the wisdom and strength to live according to His will, filling your mind with Christ’s truth.
- Mindful Choices in Media and Entertainment: Evaluate what you watch, read, and listen to. Does it align with Christ’s character? Choose content that builds up your faith and avoid media that glorifies sin.
- Cultivating Godly Character Traits: Actively pursue virtues like patience, kindness, self-control, and love (Galatians 5:22-23). Ask the Holy Spirit to produce these fruits in your life.
- Practicing Self-Denial: Identify specific areas where you are tempted. Then, make a conscious choice to deny those desires. This might involve fasting from certain habits or pleasures to strengthen your spiritual discipline.
- Seeking Accountability: Share your spiritual goals and struggles with trusted Christian friends or mentors. Ask for their encouragement and prayer to help you stay on the path of righteousness.
- Serving Others Humbly: Follow Christ’s example by serving as He served. Look for opportunities to minister to those around you, which shifts the focus from yourself to others.
- Regular Confession and Repentance: When you stumble, be quick to confess your sin to God. Turn from it and recommit to following Christ, remembering His grace is always available (1 John 1:9).
By practicing these steps, you can actively “clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ” and “make no provision for the flesh,” leading to a transformed life that glorifies God.