Section 1

The passage begins in Romans chapter 13, where Paul emphasizes that believers should live decently and truthfully in all they do so that others can see integrity reflected in their behavior. The call to be “decent and true” is not simply about biblical truth but about being genuine—authentic in who we are before God and others. Paul contrasts sincerity with hypocrisy, reminding the church that being phony led to serious consequences for Ananias and Sapphira in the early church. God values authenticity, and Paul urges believers to live with that same honesty and transparency. Being “real” is a mark of spiritual maturity, and older generations often recognize authenticity instinctively, even when they don’t fully understand every detail of faith.

Section 2

Paul continues by warning against participating in behavior that corrupts both character and witness—wild parties, drunkenness, adultery, immorality, fighting, and jealousy. These actions reflect a lack of spiritual discipline and a refusal to let Jesus rule over one’s desires. In verse 14, he offers the key: “Let the Lord Jesus Christ take control of you.” This means surrendering self-rule and allowing Christ to guide decisions, attitudes, and actions. Believers have the freedom to choose submission or independence, but spiritual health depends on yielding to God’s authority. Partial surrender—giving Jesus certain days or moments while reserving others for self—does not work. Christ’s control must extend to every part of life.

Section 3

Allowing Jesus to lead requires patience and trust—two virtues many believers struggle with. When impatience or frustration takes over, it often reveals a lack of trust in God’s timing. True submission, as described in James 4:7, means placing oneself under God’s authority daily and resisting the devil by remaining surrendered. The enemy does not flee because of human strength but because of the power of Christ within the believer. To live under the Lord’s control is to walk in faith, honesty, and dependence, demonstrating the reality of Christ’s rule through daily obedience.