Day 10 | Two Types of Righteousness: Choose Wisely – "Who I Am In Christ" Firm Foundation 21-Day Devotional
The idea of being “righteous” carries the danger of being “self-righteous.” On the other hand, false humility might prevent one from believing it is possible to be “righteous.” The text is clear that it is possible to become “the righteousness of God in Him.”
Everything turns on this question: “Whose righteousness––yours or God's?” There are many examples of self-righteousness in the Bible. Jesus used the religious establishment of His day as an example: “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20)
There are two types of righteousness: 1) The type invented by men and institutions, and 2) The type given by God.
The biblical Greek definition of righteous (δικαιοσύνη) is; Right standing; The condition acceptable to God.
It is not difficult to imagine how people can easily corrupt righteousness to make it whatever they determine. Entire religions have been established and sustained on the notion that people cannot become righteous before God without their guidance/approval. This is opposite to the teachings of Christ and Scripture.
We who are spiritual leaders should help people learn, but our best work is guiding people towards a direct relationship with Christ and understanding of the Scriptures. The qualification for having the ability to make another person righteous is a tall order! “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us.” Only someone who has no sin can become the standard and giver of righteousness— that rules out every human and human institution.
Righteousness is a gift. It is given, not earned. It is received, not created.
Romans 5:17, For if by the one man’s offense [Adam] death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.
There is no by-passing Christ to find true righteousness. Pay attention to what people say/preach. If you don't hear a presentation that places Jesus at the center of spiritual matters (such as righteousness), you are dealing with a religious spirit, not the Spirit of God.
Reflection Questions:
1. Why is self-righteousness so easily embraced?
2. What are the two types of righteousness. Which one helps you and why?
3. Why is it not possible for people, preachers, or religious organizations to grant/impart righteousness to others?
Action Items:
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We who are spiritual leaders should help people learn, but our best work is guiding people towards a direct relationship with Christ and understanding of the Scriptures. The qualification for having the ability to make another person righteous is a tall order! “He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us.” Only someone who has no sin can become the standard and giver of righteousness— that rules out every human and human institution.
Righteousness is a gift. It is given, not earned. It is received, not created.
Romans 5:17, For if by the one man’s offense [Adam] death reigned through the one, much more those who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness will reign in life through the One, Jesus Christ.
There is no by-passing Christ to find true righteousness. Pay attention to what people say/preach. If you don't hear a presentation that places Jesus at the center of spiritual matters (such as righteousness), you are dealing with a religious spirit, not the Spirit of God.
Reflection Questions:
1. Why is self-righteousness so easily embraced?
2. What are the two types of righteousness. Which one helps you and why?
3. Why is it not possible for people, preachers, or religious organizations to grant/impart righteousness to others?
Action Items:
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
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