Paul told those baptised in Christ that they must not surrender themselves to sin. They were living under grace, having been brought from death to life. In their former life, the people were slaves to sin, but once they had been set free from sin by the grace of God in Christ Jesus, Paul encouraged them to become slaves to righteousness. This obedience would come from the heart out of gratitude to God for God's generous love.

Jesus wanted the disciples always to be prepared for his return and be faithful and committed to his teaching. He wanted them to know that the real challenge would come with the passage of time. The lesson for us is that we need to make sure that we live in Christ's love and follow Christ's way every day. We have been given a great deal - the free grace of God - so a great deal will be expected of us. Jesus has taught us how to live, and we must follow his way of love for all if we expect to be welcomed into his kingdom.