What is the significance and implications of knowing (or understanding) the time (Romans 13:11)?

In Romans 13:11–14, the apostle Paul exhorts readers to live with an acute awareness and full understanding of the time they are living in and to respond with appropriate spiritual action: “And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts” (NKJV).

Knowing the time (or “understanding the present time” as rendered in the NIV) involves a deep awareness of the current day and age. The Greek word (eidotes) translated as “knowing” in Romans 13:11 means “to be aware of a fact or specific information, to know, remember, appreciate.” The word for “time” (kairos in Greek) pertains to this present era of history—the church age—when salvation in Jesus Christ is available to all who believe in Him. This present time is also when Christians have the opportunity to demonstrate their faith in Jesus Christ by loving one another (see Romans 13:8–10).

Paul’s language underscores the importance of knowing the time and understanding the urgency of the moment. As God’s people, we need to fully appreciate the fact that we are living in the golden age of opportunity—the moment of decision: “For God says, ‘At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.’ Indeed, the ‘right time’ is now. Today is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2, NLT). Once this moment passes, our time is up. There will be no more second chances (Hebrews 9:27).

Paul’s reference to knowing the time calls for an awakening from spiritual complacency and a heightened consciousness of the imminent reality of salvation. He wants Christians to understand the urgency of the hour, likening the current time to the final moments before dawn. The day of salvation is breaking. The time for lollygagging in bed is over. We must “wake up from [our] drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning” (1 Corinthians 15:34, ESV; see also Ephesians 5:14). It’s crucial that we “keep awake and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6, ESV). The return of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan are fast approaching.

Paul’s urgency for knowing the time is a call to action, prompting believers to evaluate their spiritual state and live in constant anticipation of Christ’s return. Jesus said, “We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work” (John 9:4, NLT). We must “put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light” (Romans 13:12; see also Colossians 3:8; Ephesians 5:11). Jesus also warned, “Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness. . . . Don’t let that day catch you unaware” (Luke 21:34, NLT).

Paul’s metaphorical language contrasting darkness and light suggests a radical transformation in our behavior, turning away from sinful practices and embracing a life of righteousness. Deeds of darkness symbolize evil behavior (see 1 Thessalonians 5:7), while walking in the daylight represents godly living (1 John 1:5, 7).

Understanding the time should revolutionize our conduct to reflect our commitment to living a life that honors God and stands as a testimony to others (see Romans 13:13–14). Knowing the time will motivate us to identify so closely with Christ that His character and teachings shape everything we say and do (Galatians 3:27; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10). In our relationships with others, we will “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” (Philippians 2:5).

Knowing the time also has significance for the collective Christian community. Paul urges believers to stop their quarreling and jealous behavior and foster peaceful, harmonious, loving relationships within the body of Christ (Romans 13:13; see also 1 Corinthians 12:25–26; Ephesians 4:32). When the church embodies the life and teachings of Christ, it serves as a powerful witness to the world, shining a bright beacon of hope and truth, and drawing others into Christ’s light (John 13:35; 1 John 2:10; 1 John 4:7–21).

Understanding the time is less about chronology and more about discerning the spiritual significance of our current era. Believers must live daily with heightened spiritual awareness and readiness for Christ’s return. The implications of knowing the time involve recognizing the profound urgency of the moment and responding with a life committed to righteousness and transformation, both in our personal conduct and corporate life with fellow Christians.