The concept of "The People All Righteous" is rooted in the prophetic vision of a redeemed and sanctified community, as depicted in the Scriptures. This theme is primarily drawn from the book of Isaiah, where the prophet envisions a future where God's people are characterized by righteousness and holiness.

Biblical Foundation

The phrase "The People All Righteous" is most directly associated with Isaiah 60:21, which states: "Then all your people will be righteous; they will possess the land forever. They are the branch of My planting, the work of My hands, that I may be glorified" . This verse is part of a larger prophetic declaration concerning the restoration and glorification of Zion. It speaks to a time when the people of God will fully embody righteousness, reflecting God's glory and fulfilling His covenant promises.

Theological Significance

The notion of a wholly righteous people is deeply intertwined with the biblical themes of covenant, redemption, and eschatological hope. In the Old Testament, righteousness is often linked to covenant faithfulness, where the people of Israel are called to live in accordance with God's laws and commands. The prophetic vision of a righteous people suggests a future transformation where God's people are not only positionally righteous through covenant but also practically righteous in their conduct and character.

This transformation is seen as the work of God Himself, as Isaiah 60:21 emphasizes that the people are "the branch of My planting, the work of My hands." This indicates divine initiative and action in bringing about the righteousness of His people, underscoring the grace and sovereignty of God in the process of sanctification.

New Testament Fulfillment

In the New Testament, the concept of a righteous people finds its fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His atoning sacrifice and resurrection, believers are justified and made righteous before God. The Apostle Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:21, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" . This righteousness is imputed to believers by faith, aligning with the prophetic vision of a people made righteous by God's initiative.

Furthermore, the New Testament speaks of the Church as the body of Christ, called to live out this righteousness in the world. Ephesians 4:24 exhorts believers to "put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" . This call to practical righteousness reflects the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers, enabling them to live in a manner worthy of their calling.

Eschatological Hope

The ultimate realization of "The People All Righteous" is eschatological, pointing to the consummation of God's redemptive plan. In the new heavens and new earth, as described in Revelation 21-22, God's people will dwell in perfect righteousness, free from sin and its effects. Revelation 21:27 declares, "But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who practices an abomination or a lie, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life" . This future hope assures believers of the complete and final fulfillment of God's promise to make His people wholly righteous.

Conclusion

The vision of "The People All Righteous" encapsulates the biblical narrative of redemption, from the prophetic promises of the Old Testament to their fulfillment in Christ and ultimate realization in the eschaton. It highlights the transformative power of God's grace and the hope of eternal righteousness for His people.