Definition and Nature

Righteousness before God refers to the state of being morally right or justifiable in the sight of the Lord. It is a central theme in the Bible, emphasizing a life that aligns with God's standards and commands. Righteousness is not merely an external adherence to laws but involves a heart and life transformed by faith and obedience to God.

Old Testament Understanding

In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to the Law given by God. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tsedeq," conveys the idea of justice, rightness, and faithfulness. Genesis 15:6 states, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This verse highlights that righteousness is fundamentally linked to faith in God.

The Law, as given through Moses, provided a framework for living righteously. Deuteronomy 6:25 says, "And if we are careful to observe every one of these commandments before the LORD our God, as He has commanded us, then that will be our righteousness." However, the sacrificial system also pointed to the need for atonement, recognizing human inability to achieve perfect righteousness on their own.

New Testament Revelation

The New Testament reveals a fuller understanding of righteousness through the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Greek word "dikaiosyne" is used to describe righteousness, emphasizing a state of being justified or made right with God. Romans 3:22 declares, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe."

Jesus' life and teachings exemplified perfect righteousness. In the Sermon on the Mount, He taught, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). Jesus fulfilled the Law and the Prophets, providing a way for believers to be declared righteous through faith in Him.

Justification by Faith

Central to the New Testament teaching on righteousness is the doctrine of justification by faith. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This justification is a legal declaration by God, where He imputes the righteousness of Christ to the believer, thus making them righteous in His sight.

Paul further explains in Philippians 3:9 , "And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God on the basis of faith." This underscores that righteousness is not achieved by human effort but is a gift received through faith.

Sanctification and Righteous Living

While justification is a one-time act, sanctification is the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ in righteousness. Believers are called to live out their righteousness in practical ways. Ephesians 4:24 instructs, "And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness."

The fruit of righteousness is evident in a life marked by love, justice, and obedience to God's commands. James 2:24 emphasizes, "You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone." This indicates that genuine faith will naturally produce righteous deeds.

Eternal Perspective

Righteousness before God has eternal implications. Those who are righteous through faith in Christ are promised eternal life. Matthew 25:46 contrasts the destinies of the righteous and the wicked: "And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life."

The hope of believers is to be found righteous at the return of Christ, as 2 Peter 3:13 affirms, "But in keeping with God’s promise, we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells." This future reality motivates believers to pursue righteousness in their present lives, anticipating the fulfillment of God's kingdom.