Chapters 1-8 of Romans, Paul explained the Gospel. In chapters 9-11, Paul shared his concern for his fellow Jews, that they would accept Jesus as their Messiah and declare Him Lord. He also explained that because of their unbelief, the Lord "grafted in" the wild olive branch" of the Gentiles to become a part of the family of God, but when the "fullness of the Gentiles" are over, the Jews will come to faith so that "ALL" Israel will be saved. Then starting in chapter 12, Paul explained that our faith produces actions that are different than the world. In chapter 13 Paul described worldly actions as darkness, but when we are clothed in Christ, we are in the light. The areas of actions that Paul addressed in this chapter is submission to authorities, especially with paying taxes, revenue, plus respect and honor. We are not to owe anyone anything except to love them. Verse 10, "Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law." Paul ends with the reminder that the day of the Lord is coming, and is closer now, that is why we are to "Put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light." The word armor reminds us that we are in a battle against good and evil, and as chapter 12 ended with verse 21, "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
