Topical Encyclopedia The concept of righteousness in the Bible is deeply intertwined with the relationship between humanity and God. Righteousness, in its biblical sense, refers to a state of moral purity or uprightness that aligns with God's standards. This righteousness is not merely a human achievement but is often depicted as a divine gift, enabling access to God.Old Testament Foundations In the Old Testament, righteousness is closely associated with adherence to God's laws and commandments. The righteous are those who live in accordance with God's will, as exemplified by figures such as Noah, Abraham, and David. Genesis 15:6 states, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This verse highlights the foundational principle that faith in God is counted as righteousness, establishing a precedent for access to God through faith. The Psalms frequently express the idea that the righteous have a special relationship with God. Psalm 34:15 declares, "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry." This suggests that the righteous enjoy a unique access to God, characterized by His attentive presence and willingness to hear their prayers. Prophetic Insights The prophets also emphasize the access of the righteous to God. Isaiah 33:15-16 describes the righteous as those who "walk righteously and speak with sincerity," promising that they "will dwell on the heights; the refuge of the rock will be their fortress." This imagery conveys the security and closeness to God that the righteous experience. New Testament Fulfillment In the New Testament, the concept of righteousness is further developed through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus embodies perfect righteousness and provides a way for believers to access God through His atoning sacrifice. Romans 3:22 states, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." Here, righteousness is presented as a gift from God, accessible through faith in Christ, rather than through human effort alone. The Apostle Paul elaborates on this theme in Ephesians 3:12 , where he writes, "In Him and through faith in Him we may enter God’s presence with boldness and confidence." This verse underscores the transformative access to God granted to the righteous through faith in Jesus, allowing believers to approach God with assurance. Practical Implications The access of the righteous to God is not merely a theological concept but has practical implications for the believer's life. James 5:16 encourages believers, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." This suggests that the righteous, through their prayers, can effect change and experience God's intervention in their lives. Furthermore, the access to God enjoyed by the righteous is a source of comfort and strength. Hebrews 4:16 invites believers, "Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." This access is a continual invitation to draw near to God, relying on His grace and mercy. In summary, the Bible presents the access of the righteous to God as a profound privilege rooted in faith and divine grace. This access is characterized by a personal relationship with God, marked by prayer, confidence, and the assurance of His presence and guidance. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 31:19,20Oh how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for them that fear you; which you have worked for them that trust in you before the sons of men! Nave's Topical Index Isaiah 12:6 Library The Intercourse of God and his Friend Prayer and Obedience (Continued) Christ's Intercession... Prayer and Character and Conduct The Law Anterior to Moses. Twenty-Third Lesson Bear Fruit, that the Father May Give what Ye ... Of the Judgment and Punishment of the Wicked The Sovereignty of God in Operation Thirtieth Lesson. An Holy Priesthood;' The Obedience of Christ. Resources What does it mean that a righteous person cares for the needs of animals (Proverbs 12:10)? | GotQuestions.orgHow should poetry in the Bible be interpreted? | GotQuestions.org What is fervent prayer (James 5:16)? | GotQuestions.org Righteous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Righteous: Calves of the Stall Righteous: Members of the Body Righteous: Promises To, Expressed or Implied Righteous: Relation of, to God Righteous: Righteous and Wicked, Circumstances of, Contrasted Righteous: Strangers and Pilgrims Righteous: Trees Planted Beside Rivers Righteous: Unity of, With Christ Righteous: Vessels of Gold and Silver Righteous: Willows by the Water Courses Select Readings: The Righteous and the Wicked in Contrast Related Terms |
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