“…much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:17
“For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Cor 5:21
“If you know that He is righteous, you know that everyone who practices righteousness is born of Him.” 1 John 2:29
“The work of righteousness will be peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance forever. My people will dwell in a peaceful habitation, in secure dwellings, and in quiet resting places,…” Isaiah 32:17-18
Righteousness is one of the most fundamental yet powerful revelations in the gospel of grace. The profound truth that a believer receives the very righteousness of God upon accepting, by faith, Christ’s finished work has great significance. Not only does the believer have a new legal standing before God, but through the renewing work of the Holy Spirit, they are also recreated righteous. They now have a new spiritual energy and vitality which empowers them to live for God. Combined, these two events radically alter the way a believer relates to, experiences and manifests the life of God.
I have personally witnessed many people being transformed by the revelation of their new position and new condition in Christ. I have seen men and women find new joy, peace, fulfillment and purpose in Christ simply by knowing the only sure foundation of the Christian life is not what we can do for Him, but what He has already freely and abundantly done for us. Good works and a life of sacrificial service are a fruit of knowing we are already completely accepted, loved, blessed and favored in Christ. “We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.
Our righteousness in Christ has very practical, ‘everyday’ implications. Our fellowship with God, our identity and self worth, our heart motivation for doing the things we do, and, our relationships with others are all impacted when we understand who Christ is and who we are in Him. When the truth of Christ’s finished work floods our heart, religious works motivated by obligation or the fear of missed blessing and favor can be re-assessed so that they are driven by love, thankfulness and the glory of God.
I am very grateful to God and the rich heritage of ministers who have taught and imparted this message to me over the years. My life has been forever changed by the righteousness of Christ.
I pray you are transformed and released into new levels of freedom, confidence and fruitfulness in God by a new and fresh revelation of your righteousness in Christ. To God be all the glory!