Living in Light of the Near Return of Christ

The practical application of the instruction for godly conduct is to be motivated by Jesus Christ. Both looking back to what He has done at His first coming and looking forward to what He has promised to do to bring believers into His presence.

Because of what Christ has done, the exercising of spiritual gifts given and the manifesting of His character, are to be the believer's constant focus in anticipation of His return. There must be an alertness and an awareness of what is going on keeping in view the revelation God has given of what is to come. Being unaware, indifferent or distracted concerning those details that include the completion of each individual's salvation thwarts spiritual growth and forfeits opportunities to be effective in God's service. The command is given to put on the Lord Jesus Christ which means to be manifesting His character and living to do the will of God as He did during His earthly ministry.

For the believer, indwelt by God who is light, there is no darkness to sin in. All sin is done in the light of God's presence making it all the more a grievous offense before our holy God.