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Romans 13:11

And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

Romans 13:11 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the book of Romans urges believers to be aware of the times in which they are living. It serves as a reminder that the return of Jesus Christ is imminent and that the need for readiness and alertness is crucial. By using the metaphor of being asleep, the verse emphasizes the need for believers to 'awake' and be spiritually vigilant. The phrase "for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed" emphasizes the urgency of the situation and the importance of living in anticipation of Christ's return. It is a call to action for believers to remain faithful, active, and aware as they await the fulfillment of their salvation. This verse serves as a wake-up call for all believers to live in a constant state of readiness and preparedness for the second coming of Christ.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse focuses on the urgency of spiritual awakening. The phrase "awake out of sleep" is often seen as a call to believers to be vigilant and active in their faith. It speaks to the idea of being spiritually alert and aware of the times in which we live. The mention of "salvation nearer than when we believed" underscores the importance of being prepared and ready for the return of Christ. This interpretation emphasizes the need for believers to live in a state of readiness, continually growing in their faith and maintaining a close relationship with God. It also serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making the most of the time we have been given to serve and honor God.

Romans 13:11 in other translations

American Standard Version

And this, knowing the season, that already it is time for you to awake out of sleep: for now is salvation nearer to us than when we [first] believed.

World English Bible

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.

Douay-Rheims

And that, knowing the season, that it is now the hour for us to rise from sleep. For now our salvation is nearer than when we believed.

Geneva Bible (1599)

And that, considering the season, that it is now time that we should arise from sleepe: for now is our saluation neerer, then when we beleeued it.