The eschatological wrath of God, in conjunction with the messianic glory, sets the ethical parameters for Paul. That which is earthly is also temporal, destined to be eradicated by divine wrath. That which is heavenly is eternal, destined to endure with the Creator for unending ages. 

Thus, Paul continues, “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another” (v. 12–13). The putting on of “the new self” (v. 10) is contingent upon the knowledge of God and his apocalyptic plan (v. 4). Living according to “the old self” (v. 9) is associated with prior ignorance of God, his Scriptures, and his Day. Echoing Romans 12:2, we are to reject conformity with this age, while embracing righteousness and the renewal of our minds in light of the age to come. -John P. Harrigan