The concept of the "Expectation of Righteousness" in the Bible is deeply rooted in the anticipation of the fulfillment of God's promises concerning the ultimate realization of righteousness through faith. This expectation is both a present reality and a future hope for believers, as it encompasses the transformative work of the Holy Spirit and the eschatological promise of complete sanctification.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the expectation of righteousness in his epistle to the Galatians. In Galatians 5:5 , he writes, "But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the hope of righteousness." This verse encapsulates the dual aspect of expectation: the present experience of righteousness through faith and the future consummation of righteousness at the return of Christ.

Present Reality

The expectation of righteousness is not merely a distant hope but a present reality for believers. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are justified and declared righteous before God. This justification is a legal standing, as Paul explains in Romans 5:1 , "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." The expectation of righteousness begins with this justification, which is the foundation of the believer's relationship with God.

Transformative Work of the Spirit

The expectation of righteousness is also evident in the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer. The Spirit empowers believers to live righteously, producing the fruit of the Spirit as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23 : "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." This transformation is an ongoing process of sanctification, where believers grow in holiness and reflect the character of Christ.

Future Hope

While believers experience righteousness in part through justification and sanctification, the full expectation of righteousness will be realized in the future. This eschatological hope is tied to the return of Christ and the final redemption of creation. In Romans 8:23 , Paul speaks of this future expectation: "And not only this, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies."

Faith and Perseverance

The expectation of righteousness requires faith and perseverance. Believers are called to hold fast to their faith, trusting in God's promises despite present challenges and sufferings. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This assurance fuels the believer's expectation of righteousness, motivating them to live in a manner worthy of their calling.

Conclusion

The expectation of righteousness is a central theme in the Christian life, encompassing both the present experience of God's grace and the future hope of complete sanctification. Through faith, believers are justified and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live righteously, while eagerly anticipating the fulfillment of God's promises at the return of Christ.