Introduction

The concept of righteousness is central to the biblical narrative, representing a fundamental aspect of God's character and His expectations for humanity. God's call to righteousness is a recurring theme throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing the moral and ethical standards that God desires His people to uphold. This entry explores the biblical understanding of righteousness, its significance, and the divine call for believers to live righteously.

Definition of Righteousness

In the Bible, righteousness is often associated with justice, moral integrity, and adherence to God's laws. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tsedeq," and the Greek word "dikaiosyne" both convey the idea of being in right standing with God and others. Righteousness involves living in accordance with God's will, reflecting His holiness and justice in one's actions and relationships.

Old Testament Foundations

The Old Testament lays the groundwork for understanding righteousness as a divine attribute and a human responsibility. God is depicted as the ultimate standard of righteousness, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 32:4: "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He."

God's call to righteousness is evident in His covenant with Israel, where He commands His people to live according to His statutes and commandments. Leviticus 19:2 states, "Speak to the entire congregation of the Israelites and tell them: ‘Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.’" This call to holiness is intrinsically linked to righteousness, as God's people are to reflect His character in their conduct.

The prophets also emphasize righteousness, often calling Israel to repentance and a return to righteous living. For example, Micah 6:8 declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the call to righteousness is fulfilled and exemplified in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies perfect righteousness and calls His followers to pursue the same. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6).

The apostle Paul further expounds on righteousness, emphasizing that it is not achieved through human effort but through faith in Christ. Romans 3:22 states, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." Believers are called to live out this righteousness, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as seen in Ephesians 4:24: "And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

Practical Implications

God's call to righteousness has practical implications for believers' lives. It involves a commitment to ethical living, justice, and love for others. James 1:27 highlights the practical aspect of righteousness: "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."

Righteousness also involves a transformation of character, as believers are called to reflect Christ's likeness. This transformation is a lifelong process, as Philippians 1:11 encourages believers to be "filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."

Conclusion

While this entry does not include a formal conclusion, it is evident that God's call to righteousness is a profound and pervasive theme throughout the Bible. It is a call to align one's life with God's holy standards, to seek justice and mercy, and to live in a manner that honors God and reflects His character to the world.