In what ways can we "put on" righteousness as seen in Zechariah 3:5? A Glimpse of Zechariah 3:5 “Then I said, ‘Let them put a clean turban on his head.’ So they put a clean turban on his head and clothed him, as the angel of the LORD stood by.” Righteousness Begins With God’s Act • Joshua’s filthy garments are removed by divine command—he doesn’t wash them himself. • The clean turban and rich robes picture the Lord’s imputed righteousness given freely to the repentant sinner (Isaiah 61:10; 2 Corinthians 5:21). • We “put on” righteousness first by receiving it: “For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:27) Putting On the Robe: Initial Response • Repent and believe the gospel (Acts 3:19; Romans 10:9-10). • Rest in Christ’s finished work—stop trying to stitch your own garments (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Publicly confess Him in baptism, the outward testimony that you have been clothed with Christ (Romans 6:3-4). Living in the Robe: Daily Practices • Daily confession keeps the robe free of the dust of sin (1 John 1:9). • Feed on Scripture; truth keeps the robe bright (Psalm 119:11; John 17:17). • Pray continually; fellowship with the One who provided the garments (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Walk in the Spirit so the old, filthy habits stay off (Galatians 5:16-25). • Choose righteousness in practical choices—honesty, purity, mercy—so the world sees the robe (Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15). Armor Over the Robe • “Put on the breastplate of righteousness” (Ephesians 6:14). God’s righteousness guards the heart, while obedient living keeps the breastplate polished. • “Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh” (Romans 13:14). Deliberately refuse situations that soil the garment. Guarding the Garments Until He Returns • Remain watchful (Revelation 16:15). Spiritual lethargy leads to stained robes. • Encourage fellow believers to keep their garments white (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Look forward to the marriage supper where the robe’s full splendor will be revealed (Revelation 19:7-8). Summary We put on righteousness by first receiving Christ’s spotless robe, then wearing it faithfully each day—confessing, obeying, resisting sin, and standing firm until the Lord who clothed us appears in glory. |
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