The Righteousness of God

The Righteousness of God

Casey Clement

As members of the blood-bought institution we know as the Church of Christ, we recognize the clear teachings that the Bible provides on the righteousness of God. For instance, the Apostle Paul writes to the brethren in Rome, "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference" (Romans 3:20-22). This passage highlights the fact that righteousness cannot be earned through good works but is a gift from God that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Even the Old Testament offers numerous examples of the righteousness of God. In Psalm 145:17, we read, "The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works." This verse underscores the fact that God's righteousness is perfect, complete, and unchanging. Similarly, Proverbs 14:34 states, "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." This passage emphasizes the importance of righteousness in society and the negative consequences of sin. In modern times, the righteousness of God remains just as significant for the faithfulness of Christians as it ever has been. We must recognize that our righteousness is insufficient and that we are dependent on the righteousness of God, which comes through faith in Jesus Christ. This in no way alleviates our responsibility to work the works of righteousness (Psalm 15:1,2). We must also strive to live righteously, recognizing that our lives are an example to others. As members of the body of Christ, we Christians must seek to uphold the righteousness of God in all that we say and do (Colossians 3:17). This is a tall order, but it is certainly something we can do. We believe that the Bible provides clear guidance for living a righteous life and that we must strive to conform our lives to God's word (Romans 12:1,2).  Knowing that we live in a world characterized by moral relativism and a disregard for the Truth, we must stand firm in our commitment to the righteousness of God. We must strive to live righteously, speak truthfully, act with integrity, and uphold biblical values in our personal lives, our families, and our communities.

In conclusion, the righteousness of God stands as our model for living a Christian life and is vital to the Christian’s hope of salvation. Throughout the Bible, we are taught of the righteousness of God so we can better understand His nature and the impact it has on our lives today.

It is my prayer that we continue to strive for righteousness, recognizing that it is a gift from God and that we are called to live righteously as we seek to follow Jesus in all that we do. Remember the words of Jesus in His sermon on the Mount, “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS…” (Matthew 6:33).

                                                                                                                        ~Casey

PS> This week go out of your way to put the righteousness of God first in your life. Sacrifice something this week that you like to spend time doing to study God’s Word and pray to Him. Make certain to ask God to help you become more righteous in your life.