Righteousness in Scripture

Righteousness is a central theme in the Bible, representing a state of moral purity and alignment with God's will. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tsedeq," and the Greek word "dikaiosyne" both convey the idea of justice, virtue, and uprightness. In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to God's laws and commandments. For instance, Genesis 15:6 states, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness" . This verse highlights the foundational principle that righteousness is not merely about actions but is deeply rooted in faith and trust in God.

The Psalms frequently extol the virtues of the righteous, contrasting them with the wicked. Psalm 1:6 declares, "For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish" . Here, righteousness is depicted as a path safeguarded by God, promising divine protection and favor.

In the New Testament, righteousness takes on a more profound theological significance through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22-24 explains, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus" . This passage underscores the transformative nature of righteousness as a gift from God, accessible through faith in Christ, rather than through human effort alone.

Holiness in Scripture

Holiness, like righteousness, is a key attribute of God and a calling for His people. The Hebrew word "qodesh" and the Greek "hagios" both signify being set apart, sacred, or consecrated. Holiness is first and foremost an attribute of God, as seen in Isaiah 6:3, where the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth" . This thrice-repeated declaration emphasizes the absolute purity and otherness of God.

God's call for His people to be holy is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. Leviticus 19:2 commands, "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 not merely about ritual purity but encompasses ethical and moral living that reflects God's character.

In the New Testament, holiness is closely linked to the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers. 1 Peter 1:15-16 exhorts, "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do, for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy’" . This passage reiterates the Old Testament call to holiness, now empowered by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

The Interconnection of Righteousness and Holiness

Righteousness and holiness are deeply interconnected in the biblical narrative. While righteousness often pertains to one's standing before God and ethical conduct, holiness emphasizes being set apart for God's purposes. Together, they form the foundation of a life that is pleasing to God.

The Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently intertwines these concepts. In Ephesians 4:24, he writes, "And to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness" . This verse highlights the transformative work of salvation, where believers are called to embody both righteousness and holiness as they reflect the image of God.

Ultimately, the pursuit of righteousness and holiness is a response to God's grace and a reflection of His character. It is through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ that believers are empowered to live righteously and pursue holiness, as they are conformed to the likeness of their Savior.