In this thoughtful and pastoral talk, Eliot explores Romans 13:11–14, setting it within the wider story of the early church in Rome — a community shaped by division, disruption, and deep disagreement.

As Jewish and Gentile believers struggled to live together following years of exile and return, the church faced questions that feel strikingly familiar today: How do we live faithfully in a divided world? What really matters? And how should Christians be seen by those around them?

Eliot unpacks Paul’s call to “wake up from our slumber”, reminding us that salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. He challenges us to live with urgency and purpose — not fearfully, but intentionally — putting aside deeds of darkness and “clothing ourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Drawing on the imagery of light, armour, reputation, and reconciliation, the talk connects Romans 13 with Romans 14 and the Beatitudes, showing that Christian maturity is not about winning arguments, but about reflecting Christ through character, humility, and love.

This message encourages us to:

• Live visibly as people of light

• Be mindful of our witness and reputation

• Avoid causing others to stumble

• Choose reconciliation over division

• Act like Christ in everyday life

A timely and grounding reminder that following Jesus means living differently — not withdrawing from the world, but reflecting Christ within it.